In an era where we're more digitally connected than ever, it's time to question the impact of our screen time. MOJEH explores why embarking on a digital detox could be the ideal way to kickstart the year.
With the increasing reliance on screens and the constant influx of information, it's essential to consider the toll this takes on our mental health. Studies have consistently shown a strong correlation between excessive social media usage and feelings of depression and anxiety. Additionally, our increasing dependence on electronic devices has raised concerns about their impact on our brain's functioning.
One of the significant downsides of our screen addiction is the distorted view of reality it often presents. Scrolling through carefully curated and filtered content can lead to feelings of inadequacy, as we compare our lives to what we see online. While social media may offer some benefits, there are ample indicators that social media can also pose a risk of harm to the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents, as this study found.
Dr. Bruno Ribeiro, Head of the Cognitive Development and Brain Stimulation Unit at SHA Wellness Clinic, warns about the adverse effects of excessive screen time, saying, "If the brain spends too much time in a high-frequency mode due to constant smartphone use, it can disrupt the balance between action and recovery in our nervous system, negatively impacting sleep, memory, and overall health."
Therefore, the concept of a digital detox, at times, can be akin to a revitalizing tonic for the soul. It involves freeing oneself from all technological devices and completely disconnecting. The fear of missing out (FOMO) is a common byproduct of our screen dependency, leading to anxiety and a constant need to stay connected.
However, achieving a successful digital detox is easier said than done, and this is where retreats can be beneficial. The Mandarin Oriental Dubai's Digital Wellness Escape, for example, offers a haven free from phones and electronic disruptions. In a 90-minute treatment, it focuses on massaging strained muscles in the head, eyes, neck, shoulders, hands, and feet, redirecting attention away from scattered digital distractions.
For those seeking a more extended break, the Villa Stéphanie in Baden-Baden, Germany, is renowned for its copper-insulated Digital Detox rooms. These rooms allow guests to block all electric and Wi-Fi signals, offering a retreat away from the digital world. The luxurious spa annex of the Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa is frequented by celebrities like Victoria Beckham and features collaboration between esteemed medical professionals and holistic practitioners.
If taking a week off work to indulge in a phone-free retreat isn't feasible, there are manageable steps to curb screen addiction at home. Start with small actions, such as deleting social media apps from your phone for a day or two each month. Unsubscribing from distracting online groups and deleting unused apps can also help clear your mind. Additionally, using a standard alarm clock instead of your phone for waking up can prevent the temptation of checking emails and texts right before sleep or upon waking.
In essence, a digital detox has become more essential than ever in our hyper-connected world. It offers a chance to break free from the digital overwhelm and regain a sense of balance in our lives, ultimately contributing to improved mental health and overall well-being
