The Benefits of Unplugging
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The Importance of Unplugging Technology
We all know the extensive benefits of technology. It makes it easier to catch up with loved ones, makes work more efficient, serves as an outlet for creativity, and the list goes on! Despite all these positives, there is a lot to be gained from occasionally unplugging. It gives you the chance to relax, reflect, enjoy the outdoors, and catch up with family and friends in person.
You may even find that you enjoy disconnecting and having the opportunity to recharge more often. The scientifically- proven benefits of taking a break from technology can be taken advantage of at any time. You can do so for an hour in the morning, in the evening before bed, or during meal times. The specific time is insignificant, the most important thing is having the discipline to know when and how to disconnect.
Below are some of the benefits of taking a break from technology.
Increased Productivity
One research site required participating students to unplug for 24 straight hours. Most reported that doing so increased their productivity, helped them focus, and made them more aware of things they were previously oblivious to, such as face-to-face interactions. Participants of similar studies shared that it improved their quality of life due to spending more time with friends, outdoors, exercising, cooking, and enjoying healthier meals.
Better Quality Sleep
Sleeping patterns can be disrupted when receiving endless notifications and alerts on your devices. Although we all enjoy the occasional funny meme or tweet, it's good to take the occasional break from social media and work emails. Recent research shows that sleep quality was negatively impacted by both mobile usage and social media. Other research suggests that the blue light from the screens in our computers and phones makes it harder for us to fall asleep. This implies that we should probably put the technology away before going to bed.
Improved Interpersonal Communication
Various studies show that unplugging from technology can do wonders for your interpersonal relationships and in-person communication. It encourages you to connect with others off screen and to compose your thoughts, instead of relying on a text-based medium. We admit that technology makes communication convenient and quick, but it removes a lot of important elements of communication such as body language, tone, and other factors that help us to bond and understand one another. Adolescents, especially, need experience reading and interpreting body language. This is something social media and the Internet can't help with (unless you're Facetiming or web chatting!) Unplugging takes away possible FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) syndrome that many people struggle with. It also reduces other negative impacts on mental health.
We hope this article helped you understand the benefits of occasionally taking a break from technology, whether it be from your laptop, mobile phone, television, or a combination of them all. Cutting down on Internet usage strengthens in-person relationships, allows you to pursue goals off the computer, increases productivity and sleep quality, etc. Still, we recognize that there are so many abilities and opportunities made possible through technology and the Internet. Remember, balance is key!
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