Peace of Mind: How You Can Stay Connected and Keep Your Sanity

Did you know Canada..  If the bulk of your socialization is online and you pride yourself on completing shopping on the Internet, you're in danger of tech overload. Working in front of a screen and playing in front of a screen all day creates tension and isolates you. Learn how to stay connected, and regain your peace of mind.

More than 50% of University Students Suffer Tech-Related Pains

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Potentially, more than 2 million University students could develop discomfort and chronic pain before they enter the workforce. The number comes from a study conducted by Boston University researchers. More than half of all students who participated experience pain due to sitting at their computers. Out of those surveyed, 1 in 7 admitted to feeling pain after being at the computer for 60 minutes.

Set Boundaries to Avoid Techno-Stress

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Physical pain is only one aspect of tech overload. California State University professor Dr. Larry Rosen studies the effects of techno-stress. He says this is the “irritation and frustration” that comes from being constantly plugged in.

Rosen advises setting boundaries to prevent overload. Go offline often. Don’t look at your mobile device during dinner, or stare at the laptop all evening after work. Take frequent breaks. Stand up and walk away from the computer every 30 minutes, even if it’s only for a few moments.

Unplug to Stay Connected to Your Sanity

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How important is unplugging for your health? In 2008, the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that patients who were given a window had less stress and lower blood pressure than those who were given a nature view on a plasma TV screen.

Try unplugging from technology for one day a week. That’s what Reboot suggests. This organization invented the Sabbath Manifesto, which encourages you to take a day of rest away from the cyberworld. Many large corporations are applying a theory of unplugging to keep workers healthier. Nike, Google and others have dedicated nap space for employees who want to meditate or rest.

Stay Healthy Even When You’re Plugged In

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Avoiding technology altogether just isn’t an option for most. The world is becoming increasingly more plugged in. There are ways to stay healthy and avoid tech overload, even when you have to stay plugged in.

• Maintain good health: Try to practice healthy eating habits and take care of yourself. Take supplements to get the nutrients you need. Save money on supplements and stress-reducing drugs at sites like Canadadrugcenter.com.
• Connect in real-time: Don’t rely on electronics to stay in touch. Lack of face time can lead to loneliness and poor mental health.
• Practice good posture: Be mindful of your positioning when you use technology. Stretch your arms, shoulders and legs often to avoid getting stiff muscles.
• Get regular exercise: Try to exercise for 30 minutes a day. Regular physical activity reduces stress.

Keep your sanity and your health by staying connected to the world, and get disconnected from the tech. Strike a balance between online and offline time to experience better physical and emotional health.