Applatch
Applatch
In today’s digital age, it’s very crucial to reduce our phone usage for better mental health. With the constant cycle of notifications, updates, and messages, it’s easy to get caught up and overlook the subtle benefits of taking a break.
Excessive smartphone use has made us very dependent on them, making it difficult to imagine a world without them. Being constantly connected to the internet and social media can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and FOMO (fear of missing out).
By spending less time on our phones, we can disconnect from these constant sources of mental stress and give our brains a much-needed break.
Here are some of the benefits of reducing the hours you spend on your phone on a daily:
Better Focus
Reducing phone use gives you the ability to be more present at the moment. When we are constantly on our phones, we are easily distracted and unable to fully engage in the present. By spending less time on our phones, we can focus on our surroundings, the people around us, and also the task at hand. This leads to a more fulfilling and enriching life.
Increased Productivity
Reducing phone use can lead to increased productivity. When we are constantly checking our phones for notifications, we are easily distracted and unable to focus on the task at hand. By spending less time on our phones, we are able to focus more on our work and be more productive.
To reduce phone use, start by setting aside specific times of the day to check your phone. This allows you to stay on top of your important messages without constantly checking your phone throughout the day. Turning off notifications when you don’t need them is another effective way to reduce phone use. This takes care of distractions and helps you focus on your work.
Better Relationships
Reducing smartphone use can improve your relationships. When we’re on our phones, we’re often not fully present in our conversations and interactions with others, spending less time on our phones allows us to give people in our lives our full attention, leading to stronger, more meaningful connections.
We suggest two ways that being always connected undermines the emotional benefits of face-to-face social interactions.
First, smartphone use can prevent us from paying close attention to friends and family in our immediate social circle, reducing the emotional advantages of continued social connections.
Second, smartphones may replace many casual social connections, preventing people from reaping the emotional rewards of such beautiful and physical exchanges.
To improve relationships, it’s essential to reduce phone use and prioritize in-person interactions. By doing so, we can reap the emotional benefits of having genuine connections with the people around us.
Better Sleep
By reducing phone use, you can also experience better sleep. The blue light emitted from phone screens can disrupt natural sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Therefore, it is always good to put your phone away before bedtime to allow yourself to relax and wind down, leading to a better night’s sleep.
Fewer Phone Checks, More Progress
Over 71% of adults own smartphones globally, and on average, they spend an hour and 39 minutes per day on them. This doesn’t even include screen time at work, which also increases daily usage.
To combat this, try reducing your smartphone usage by 25%. By limiting your phone checks to 35 times per day, you can become more present in your environment and improve your overall performance. Take advantage of the opportunity to always pause and take a deep breath when you feel the urge to check your phone.
Pretty soon, you’ll see some significant outcomes like:
- Your heart rate and blood pressure will drop.
- An increase in enjoyable activities, such as music listening
- Become more in charge of controlling and regulating your emotions.
- Better judgment in the heat of the moment
- Substituting a deep breath for checking your phone can strengthen the habit of focusing on deep, healing breaths, leading to reduced stress and improved overall health.
Conclusion
Reducing phone use can lead to various benefits, including improved mental health and better sleep. It will help you be more present, improve relationships, and increase your productivity.
While smartphones are designed to make our lives easier and more convenient, being always connected isn’t necessary. Instead, disconnecting from technology can help us connect better with ourselves and the world around us. Use Applatch while at it to track your progress and even lock addictive apps to reduce the temptation of staying glued to your smartphone.
Take a break from your phone every once in a while and see how it can positively impact your life.