Balancing Screen Time and Wellbeing

Mindfulness is used to improve focus, reduce stress and anxiety as well as help with a variety of physical conditions. It is also increasingly being applied to technology use and development.

There are a growing number of apps and tools designed to encourage mindfulness while using technology. However, not all apps are created equal.

1. Take a break

Taking a break from your digital devices can help you reconnect with the people in your life and foster healthy habits. However, it’s important to find a balance that works for you. It can be helpful to set a clear plan for your tech break and to establish specific goals. This may include limiting how often you check your phone or social media, setting aside time for non-screen activities, and establishing designated tech-free zones.

It can also be useful to monitor how your digital usage affects you. For example, if you’re feeling irritable or stressed after using your computer or phone, it’s a sign that you need to take a break.

Mindful tech aims to bring sustainability to technology, which can promote a more balanced relationship with digital devices. The key to this is embracing mindfulness and developing healthy digital habits. This includes establishing conscious boundaries, engaging in digital mindfulness practices, nurturing real-life connections, designing a digital environment and using technology for well-being.

2. Be mindful of your emotions

Mindful tech is about being aware of your emotions and choosing to use technology in ways that promote well-being. It’s about limiting the amount of time you spend on apps and choosing to use those that serve a purpose in your life. It’s about nurturing real-life connections and finding balance between screen time and physical activity.

The term “mindfulness” can sound like jargon, or it might seem too new and trendy to understand. But to anyone who has ever experienced mindfulness or meditation, the concept is quite clear.

Using technology mindfully can help you regain control over your digital life and create a positive relationship with it. By being conscious of your technology usage, fostering real-life connections, engaging in digital mindfulness practices, and designing a digital environment, you can have a more fulfilling relationship with your devices. This can also lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships with others in your real world. By being intentional with your tech use, you can reclaim the power it has over your mind and body.

3. Take a break from social media

If you’re finding yourself checking your social media accounts compulsively, or you feel like you’re spending too much time on the internet, it may be a sign that you need to take a break. Social media can be a great way to connect with friends and family, but it can also make you feel isolated and stressed. Taking a break can help you get back in touch with your real-life relationships and give you more time to spend on other activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

Start by setting a clear intention for your social media break. Make sure to communicate this with those close to you, so they know what you’re trying to achieve. Then, set a timer to keep track of how long you’re on your phone or computer each day. You can also try deleting the apps or logging out of your account on all devices to prevent temptation. You can also use apps that block access to websites and social media for a certain period of time.

4. Limit your screen time

While many people believe that technology is essential for work, school and social life, excessive screen time can be bad for physical and mental health. Here are some ways to reduce your screen time and find a healthier balance.

The first step is to be aware of your screen usage. It can be easy to lose track of how much time you are spending on apps and websites. Use an app that allows you to track your screen time and identify patterns or problem areas.

Consider creating tech-free zones or times, such as mealtimes and before bed. It can also help to stop taking your phone to sleep with you, as the blue light can disrupt your sleep cycle.

Unlike traditional screen time reduction apps, Zario’s Circuit Breaker is designed to help users become aware of their digital habits rather than simply limit or block them. This ensures that every time you open a distracting app, it becomes a mindful choice instead of a mindless automatic action.