April 7 is World Health Day, which celebrates the founding day of the World Health Organization. Over the years, this celebration has also become a platform to raise awareness about the world’s most pressing health issues.
That said, this is also an appropriate day to take stock and evaluate our overall well-being.
Good health is not only about doing well physically but also mentally. That is to say, mental health is essential for a holistically healthy lifestyle.
In a world where most of our daily lives revolve around the digital landscape, the celebration of World Health Day allows us to reflect on our relationship with screens.
As of 2023, the Philippines has ranked highest in average screen time for mobile devices at 32.53% of their time daily.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with using phones, it becomes a problem when our time spent in the digital world eclipses the hours we spend acquainting with the natural world.
This World Health Day, let us unravel the impacts of screen time on our health and explore ways to find a balance between the digital realm and the rejuvenating embrace of nature.
Balancing technology and nature for well-being
Balancing Nature and Technology in the Digital Age
Previous studies have shown how nature videos played in extreme isolation, like prisons, drastically reduce violence. Even virtual reality (VR) nature simulations like birds flying overhead can positively impact someone’s behavior.
Some studies have also shown how watching earth scenes and outdoor sceneries markedly lowers anxiety. But can technological nature experiences replace the real thing?
Though they have comparable benefits, there will always be elements in the natural world that cannot be replicated in virtual realities.
As such, finding a healthy balance between our digital devices and the healing touch of nature is essential for both our physical and psychological wellbeing.
Below, we discuss the impacts of too much screen time and the ways to reconnect with our natural environment.
The Impacts of screen time on our well-being
How does our time spent on screen negatively impact our well-being?
Physical health concerns
Prolonged screen time is associated with a range of physical health issues, including eyestrain, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns.
Moreover, being sedentary while on screen also means a more inactive lifestyle. This then leads to other health concerns such as obesity, muscle stiffness, and joint problems.
Sleep disruptions
There is a need to balance technology use as it affects our body’s normal processes. For instance, excessive screen time close to bedtime can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm.
The blue light from your screens tricks your body into believing it is still morning and suppresses melatonin production. As a result, it becomes harder to fall asleep, thus negatively impacting the overall quality of sleep.
Mental health challenges
Mental health professionals have also noted the link between overconsumption of screen-based activities and mental health challenges.
While we are glued to our phones, we are bombarded with stress-inducing information that often flows faster than we can process.
Over time, this continuous exposure without resolution can lead to chronic illnesses like stress, anxiety, and depression.
Moreover, the constant exposure to digital content, often promoting unrealistic standards, can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy and social isolation.
Reduced physical activity
Excessive screen time often leads to less physical activity and limits our interaction with the actual nature that surrounds us.
Nature teaches us to move, explore, and engage in physical activities, such as walking, hiking, or simply playing outdoors.
As social creatures, humans derive immense satisfaction and fulfillment from interacting with the tangible beauty and serenity of nature.
Prolonged screen use confines individuals to sedentary behaviors, robbing people of the health benefits that natural environments inherently offer.
Lowered attention span
Multitasking with multiple digital tools and excessive media consumption may contribute to cognitive fatigue, which contributes to a decreased attention span.
This can affect a person’s academic and professional performance, as well as their ability to concentrate on tasks.
For children, too much screen time can also interfere with physical and cognitive development. It may impede social skills, limit physical play, and contribute to attention-related issues.
How can we effectively reduce screen time?
Given the adverse effects of excessive screen time, here are some tips to effectively regulate your screen activities.
Impose daily or weekly screen time limits
One effective strategy to spend less time on your devices is to set screen time limits on your apps, especially on mobile. By setting clear boundaries, individuals can establish a healthier relationship with technology.
This way, you can also prioritize other activities, such as spending time outdoors or trying new hobbies. These limits encourage mindfulness about screen usage and promote a more balanced lifestyle that could ultimately lead to improved well-being.
Practice digital detox
With most of our time now spent online, it takes a lot of work to practice digital detox. Now, it involves intentionally unplugging from screens, particularly from social media platforms, to reconnect with the world beyond the digital realm.
In urban areas where the digital landscape can feel overwhelming, dedicating designated periods for digital detox opens a way for people to rejuvenate their minds and bodies.
Putting your phone down and going out fosters deeper connections with oneself and others. More importantly, it promotes mental clarity and a renewed sense of presence in the physical world.
Go out in nature
Actively participating in outdoor activities where you are exposed to nature offers a refreshing alternative to screen time. By preoccupying yourself with healthy habits, you will naturally reduce the temptation to stay glued to digital devices.
Whether it’s hiking through scenic trails, picnicking in lush parks, or simply taking a leisurely stroll in the countryside, immersing in nature provides a compelling incentive to disconnect from screens.
The sensory richness and immersive experiences found outdoors are the best ways to captivate the mind. More importantly, it also encourages physical movement and social interactions, fostering a healthier lifestyle while simultaneously reducing reliance on screens.
The long-term benefits of lesser screen time
Reducing screen time brings long-term benefits across various aspects of our well-being.
By avoiding excessive screen use, individuals can mitigate the risks of developing chronic health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal problems associated with sedentary behavior.
Embracing activities that replace screen time fosters physical fitness and promotes a more active lifestyle.
Moreover, diminishing screen exposure allows for deeper connections with the surrounding environment, fostering an appreciation for nature and facilitating meaningful social interactions.
Mentally, reducing screen time can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. This then leads to improved cognitive function, better sleep quality, and enhanced emotional resilience.
Over time, the cultivation of healthier screen habits paves the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life. With this, you can enjoy increased productivity, greater creativity, and a stronger sense of connection with yourself and others.
Choose a home where you’re in tune with nature
Come home to a community where you have spacious access to your natural environment. See how you can foster a healthier life connected to your surroundings in Camella.
Celebrate Life’s Milestones in Camella!
Make unforgettable memories in a Camella home.
Our communities are designed to elevate your living experience.
