Nowadays, screen time is the most common way to socialize and have fun. Our dependence on screens, whether for social media browsing or television viewing, is both a boon and a bane. Even while modern technology has many advantages, it is undeniable that its portability and ease of use make it somewhat addicting. Because screen time can contribute to an overly sedentary lifestyle, it’s critical to recognize when it’s intruding into your active time.
Thankfully, there are ways to solve the problem. The screen itself can even become a tool to help you reduce excessive screen time, and accessories like a walking pad or even a change in routine can offer great health benefits.
Thinking About the Screen Again
Some types of screens promote inactivity, which is one of the reasons why individuals stop doing things when using them. The television is a big, heavy device that we frequently use to watch films or television programs that require prolonged sitting as you take in the narrative. Even phones that make short-form information easily accessible give us little serotonin spikes that keep us motionless for hours on end as we aimlessly scroll through depressing content until we finally have to get up.
However, such need not be the case.
Go ahead and watch TV if you want to! There is a wealth of excellent media available. Additionally, you can stay active while viewing it. Set a timer for when the movie is halfway through, get up, stretch, or perform some mild exercise, and then resume watching. Or, while you watch, practice yoga or lift weights. You may even watch a movie or binge-watch your favorite show while using a treadmill, walking pad, or other stationary exercise equipment.
Additionally, screen time can be used to add some excitement or motivation to things that would otherwise be dull, tiresome, or challenging. While cleaning or completing other tasks, playing your favorite music or podcast on your phone might give you a little motivational boost or, in the spirit of Mary Poppins, even help you turn the boring chore into an enjoyable activity! Try completing certain activities during a song’s duration, or time the activity to the beat of the music.
Including Motion in Digital Projects
People often assume that working entails sitting motionless at a desk and working nonstop until the task is finished. We like to think differently. Even if you work a desk job, there is no regulation that requires it to be sedentary, even though working is helpful.
Standing desks and adjustable workstations are excellent pieces of furniture for promoting mobility and activity while working. Standing for a bit after spending a lot of time sitting can sometimes help your body feel more natural again and give you the energy you need to keep working. Your body will be grateful if you set reminders to stand up or take a walk around the office every half hour. Of course, the desk won’t merely make you stand up every now and again.
Ideas for Active Entertainment
Naturally, being engaged during screen time does not entail ignoring the screen entirely. As previously stated, you can work out while watching or doing housework. But screens can also serve as the mainstay of your free time.
Exercise with a television is very popular. Since aerobic exercise programs were featured on early-morning television, people have been doing it. People of various body kinds can use the abundance of freely available fitness guides available on YouTube and other streaming sites these days to stay active. Online dancing classes are also offered; K-pop dance tutorial videos are especially well-liked these days. Furthermore, there are VR and video games that emphasize exercise or physical activity.
Active Screen Time That Is Family Friendly
Taking care of the children? No issue! Screen time can be made active in a variety of ways. Look for video activities that you and the children may participate in. You may also use the break time for advertisements as moving time! During commercials, give your children a race around the house. The next activity or video that is seen is chosen by the winner.
Eliminating screens isn’t the first step in converting screen time into active time. Ultimately, the popularity of screens can be attributed to their convenience, which can be used as a complement to active time or as a motivator and teaching tool.
Moderation is essential in everything. This also applies to active/sedentary time. Screens can promote energy and movement in addition to calm! Which one you choose to participate in is ultimately up to you.
SOURCE: ART OF HEALTHY LIVING
