Digital devices are everywhere today. Technology has become part of our everyday lives.
Most of us can’t be without a computer, smartphone, iPad, or a tablet because we either need them for work or personal use.
Like now, you might be reading this from your smartphone or computer.
We are in an era where technology devices are almost essential for everyday life. It’s a bit hard to stay away from digital devices, but it’s about managing it so that we can limit the effects of these Digital Devices on our health.
Why limit the use of digital devices?
Digital devices as “Energy Robbers”
Have you ever felt tired and exhausted after spending hours on your Digital Device? Did you realise that sitting in front of a computer can contribute to your fatigue?
When you are on technology, such as a computer, for long periods of time your circulation slows down, your blinking rate reduces, and your eyes dry out a bit more. The light from the screen creates an oxidative reaction on your eyes, which is equivalent to a rusting process. Blood circulation is reduced, and fatigue can set in.
Too much use of your Digital Device may harm your eyes.
When you’re on a digital device, your blink actually decreases, you’re not lubricating the eyes as much as you would normally be.
Too much light from Digital Devices contributes to the dryness of the eyes. Based on a study, over 30% of the population will need glasses in the next 5 to 10 years. This can is considered to be due to the exposure to digital devices, with not enough exposure to natural light. Going outside and being exposed to gentle natural sunlight, can help the health of the eyes.
Your metabolism slows down.
When you’re sitting still and typing for long periods of time, your metabolism rate decreases. Studies show that the metabolism slows down more when you are sitting watching TV compared with lying down. Moving around regularly will help circulation and metabolism.
Reduces brain brilliance.
Have you ever got off a computer after a couple of hours of being on there and just feel really foggy in the brain and can’t quite think straight?
When I was writing my book – The Energy Solution, I would spend long hours in front of the computer editing.
I found that when I finished for the day I would feel tired and struggled to think clearly.
If you’re spending your work hours sitting at a computer, whether it’s data entry or corresponding via email, your concentration and attention ability can be affected. You can also feel more fatigued.
Quality of Sleep.
The blue light emitted from Digital Devices stops you creating the sleep hormone called melatonin. Without Melatonin, you cannot get good quality sleep. Trouble sleeping impacts on the next day were you may feel unrefreshed and tired to start the day.
Neck pain, Headaches and Posture Changes.
Have you ever got on a bus or train and looked around to see the majority of people on their digital devices? Or in cafes? Many of us are sitting looking down at our smart device with the head and neck in a downward position for long periods of time. Even sitting in a chair with your arms perched in a typing position is not a natural posture and places strain on your neck, shoulder and back muscles.
Digital Devices emits Radiation.
Radiation is still a contentious issue. The Wi-Fi and radiation that is emitted from phones, in my opinion, has a detrimental effect on the body.
The effect of digital frequencies and radiation in our environment has yet to be fully discovered, but think that our cells and nervous system communicate via tiny electric impulses. Interruption to these processes can be detrimental to our health. Using devices to help shield us from this radiation is valuable.
Robs you of your time.
Have you ever watched a movie and not realised that two hours have gone by? Have you ever been on social media without realising that you’ve been on there for an hour when you only intended to take a quick five minutes look? Sometimes, we spend too much time on the Digital Device without even realising it. Those times could have been spent with our family or loved ones.
What can you do?
Use a timer.
If you use social media and often lose track of time, set a timer for fifteen minutes to remind yourself to stop. Schedule time for later in the day to check your social media or emails. Dividing the time you are on the devices during the day will help reduce fatigue and overwhelm.
Use eyewear that reduces blue light exposure.
DefenderShield Blue Light Blocking Glassescan be purchased online and are a great investment, especially if your work requires looking at the computer screens a lot. By reducing the amount of blue light coming into your delicate eyes, you can decrease the oxidative damage and help the production of the sleep hormone Melatonin.
Stay Hydrated.
If you’re on a computer all day, stay hydrated. Hydration is a great way to keep that circulation moving, especially with the heat that we’ve got going on here at the moment. If you are going to be working with a computer for long hours, make sure you have a water bottle near you so you can stay hydrated. Even better, schedule regular breaks to get up, move around and go to get a glass of water.
Take breaks and move around.
This is really important – you have to keep the circulation going. If you are going to be working in long hours on the computer, schedule time to take regular breaks. In this time stand up, move around, stretch those tired neck and shoulder muscles. Walk outside, breathe some fresh air, look at natural light. This will help the blood circulating through your body.
Digital Devices are a great help for us every day and can hugely help us, only if we know how to manage and balance it in our everyday lives. Use the above tips to help limit the effects of digital devices on your health. It is about being aware of what these devices can do and how you can shield yourself from it.
Have a fabulous day