Wellness can be defined as the absence of disease or illness. It can also be defined as the presence of health, satisfaction, purpose, and well-being. The National Wellness Institute promotes six dimensions of wellness: emotional, occupational, physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual. Environmental and/or financial wellness might also be included. This year, May 7, 2021 is International Digital Well-Being Day. It falls right in the middle of Screen Free Week which takes place May 3-9, 2021.
During the pandemic, people have relied on technology more than ever before. Work, schoolwork, telehealth appointments, socializing with friends and family, and exercise classes are just a few of the everyday activities that have been moved to a digital format. As a result, the number of hours that individuals use screens has greatly increased. Too much technology use can have negative impacts on our health and well-being. It can impact our mental health by causing or increasing distraction, isolation, anxiety, and depression.
Our physical health can be negatively impacted by being sedentary for long periods of time while using technology. This can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and hypertension, as well as back and neck strain. Additionally, our sleep and vision can be impacted.
For tips on creating balance and digital wellness for yourself or your children, visit the links below.
Balancing Technology Tips from Berkeley University Health Services
https://uhs.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/balancingtechnologytips.pdf
Tips for Digital Well-being: what families can do from Common Sense Media
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/uploads/kids_action/cs_digitalwellbeingtips.pdf
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.