In today’s digital age, screens have become integral to our daily lives. Whether for work, entertainment, or staying connected with loved ones, we are glued to screens for extended periods. However, many may not realize the profound impact that long screen time can have on our health. At Elevation Health Clinic in Canada, where Dr Brian Nantais and the Nantais Family Chiropractic team provide expert Chiropractic Treatment, we’re here to shed light on how your screen time habits may directly affect your health.
- Adverse Effects of Long Screen Time
- How to Mitigate the Effects of Long Screen Time
Adverse Effects of Long Screen Time:
The Strain on Your Eyes:
Spending prolonged hours staring at screens can strain your eyes, leading to symptoms like dryness, irritation, and even headaches. This is due to the blue light emitted by screens, disrupting your sleep-wake cycle and cause digital eye strain.
Postural Problems:
Have you ever noticed yourself slouching or hunching while using your phone or computer? Extended periods of screen time can contribute to poor posture, leading to discomfort and even long-term spinal misalignments. This can result in neck pain, shoulder tension, and back problems.
Impact on Sleep Quality:
Using screens before going to bed can interfere with your body’s normal sleep cycle. The blue light that screens emit hinders the creation of melatonin, which is the hormone that controls sleep. As a result, it may become harder to fall asleep and the overall sleep quality may suffer.
Increased Sedentary Behavior:
Extended screen time often translates to prolonged sitting or lying down, contributing to a sedentary lifestyle. This lack of physical activity can maximize the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and various other chronic health conditions.
Mental Health Effects:
Excessive screen time is directly associated to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Constant exposure to digital media can lead to feelings of inadequacy, FOMO (fear of missing out), and a heightened sense of stress.
How to Mitigate the Effects of Long Screen Time:
Take Regular Breaks:
Incorporate regular breaks into your screen time routine. Follow the 20-20-20 rule, which is – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for a minimum of 20 seconds, giving your eyes a break.
Practice Good Posture:
Be mindful of your posture while using screens. Sit straight, keep your shoulders relaxed, and position your screen at eye level to minimize strain on your neck and back.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed:
Avoid using screens at least an hour before bedtime to minimize the impact on your sleep quality. Instead, relax like reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath.
Stay Active:
Counteracting screen time’s sedentary effects by incorporating regular physical activity into your routine. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily to promote overall health and well-being.
Set Boundaries:
Establish boundaries around your screen time habits. Limit unnecessary screen use, especially during meals, family time, and before bedtime. Create designated screen-free zones in your home to encourage more face-to-face interaction and relaxation.
Bottom Line
As our reliance on screens continues to grow, it’s essential to be mindful of their impact on our health. By recognizing the effects of long screen time and taking above mentioned steps to mitigate them, you can safeguard your overall well-being and enjoy a healthier, balanced lifestyle. At Elevation Health Clinic, Dr Brian Nantais and the Nantais Family Chiropractic team is here to support you with expert Chiropractic Treatment and personalized care. Contact us today if you’re experiencing discomfort or seeking guidance on optimizing your health in the digital age. Let’s work together to elevate your health and vitality.