Physical Effects Of Digital Products
Over the last few years, many studies have been conducted looking at the regular use of communication devices such as cell phones in order to verify their impact on health. While some definitive results have been achieved, it is difficult to know the effect those results actually have in practice on the health and well being of people in everyday life.
It has been shown many times that low levels of electromagnetic radiation from cell phones and other broadcasting devices does have a direct impact on the molecules in our bodies.
The radio waves and microwaves emitted by these devices cause increased oxidation in certain enzymes, marking an increase in overall oxidation levels in the body. What isn't clear though is how much this increased oxidation actually harms the body, if at all.
Oxidation is a natural process and a regular fact of life, but increased levels of oxidation over time can damage cells which could possibly become cancerous.. So these risks and potential problems should'nt be disregarded.
There have been a few studies that have shown strong evidence that those foods and substances high in antioxidants can prevent a large portion of radiation-induced oxidation. There are some natural products such as gingko biloba and bee propolis that can counter this oxidative effect. There also some tasty food choices that have the same effect.
- Pecans
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Artichokes
- Goji Berries
- Raspberries
- Kale.
- Dark Chocolate
Hmm, I'll take the dark chocolate, thanks!
Mental Health In A Digital World
Worrying though these physical factors may be, there is an even greater problem in the effect these devices can have on our mental health.
Obsessive use of cell phones often leads to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. There are several factors at work here.
The constant bombardment of images on social media can lead to people judging their lives against others and feeling inadequate. This is especially common in teenagers and young adults. In fact those people with the apparent perfect lives could have used photoshopped images or exaggerated their successes. They may have their own inadequacies so you shouldn't jump to conclusions and feel bad.
You only see the flowers but they may be laying awake at night pulling out the thorns.
Another problem with modern day use of technology is that some folk are always connected. Having a cell phone means that people can always get hold of you. This is a good thing when there is an emergency but annoying if it's your boss getting in touch at the weekends.
The constant sound of messages coming in means you never really switch off and if you have problems in your life it may serve as a reminder of obligations. This can make it difficult to truly relax.
The continual distractions of a phone destroys the ability to focus on the job in hand. Lack of focus causes mental confusion, decreased productivity, and increases stress..
These problems are made worse if you take your cell phone in to the bedroom and get a disturbed nights sleep.
Personal relationships can also suffer. If your partner feels they don't have your undivided attention this can lead to decreased bonding and resentment. This is not just phone use either. Turn the TV off and have proper conversations without distractions.
Tips To Manage Technology Related Stress and Maximize Efficiency
- Check emails and messages only at certain times of the day or week. Maybe first thing in the morning and then late afternoon.
- Don't multitask with your technology. Focus on one task, and leave the messages and emails until you are done.
- Turn off your cell phone at night. If you use it for your alarm to wake up in the morning make sure that notifications are turned off, or just buy a cheap alarm clock.
- When using social networks, set a limit on how long you will stay on for and stick to it. Don't just browse endless photos and posts. How many cat memes do you need to see in one day?
- Don't compare your life circumstances to those of others, which are often photo-shopped or exaggerated in other ways.
- Limit news media browsing to only a few minutes per day. Don't overwhelm yourself with information.
- Have some down time each month, or preferably, each week. Leave the phone at home and go outside and enjoy nature. play sport or just spend time with friends and family.
- Put your phone away when you aren't doing anything specific with it. When you get the urge to start browsing, read a book or start up a conversation.
- Never have the phone present or the laptop or TV on when trying to have a deep and meaningful conversation with someone you care about.
Digital technology is a powerful tool when used well. It can help to manage a fast-paced and productive lifestyle, but it can also be a double-edged sword, if used irresponsibly.
