How to have an extra 3 hours everyday!
A.K.A. Four reasons to take a break from electronics today
1.) Have extra time
We all say we want more time. What would you do if you had an extra three hours a day? Maybe you say you would work out more, eat healthier, start a new hobby, take a part time job, or spend it with the ones you love. Studies show that in 2017 adults aged 18 and over spent an average 2 hours and 51 minutes on their smart phone. And the stats are even higher for younger adults. In 2016 adults between the ages of 18-24 spent over 4 hours on their phones!
2.) Turning off the electronics can improve relationships
What would your relationships look like if you weren’t constantly having to complete with a phone or tv for a loved ones attention? What would you do? What would you talk about? John Gottman is a famous researcher who can watch couples and predict with 90% accuracy if a couple will stay together or get a divorce. One of the things he observes is how we respond to our partner’s bids for attention.
3.) Improve your sex life
A recent study showed that with the rise of Netflix came a decrease of sex. The peak time of Netflix use is between 10 and 11 pm, which in the past was time for winding down and connecting in a more intimate way but now couples are watching tv and often not even together. In the past 20 years research shows a 20% decrease in the average amount of sex a couple has. We are connecting more with our smart phones than we are each other!
4.) Train your brain to relax
The connections in our brain we use get stronger. Don’t want to feel like you have to be “on” all the time? Then give your brain a break. Turn off the phone, close the computer and find a quiet place to be. Evolution occurs over a long period of time, and electronics are really a brand new part of our history of a species but are brains are not meant to deal with the constant stimulation. Our brains are working overtime to make sense of the constant barrage of information. The more our brains get used to be on and working all the time the harder it can be for us to relax and take a break and then we wonder why we are stressed and anxious all the time.
Decrease Anxiety and Lower Stress Through Therapy in Charlotte, NC
Want to learn others ways to relax? You don’t have to live your life feeling stressed out and anxious. Therapy can help. If you are Charlotte, NC feel free to reach out for your free 15 minute consultation.
About me: Therapist in DilwortH area, Charlotte
Theresa Leskowat MS LPC is owner and founder of Clear Vista Counseling. Theresa is passionate about helping individuals manage anxiety, increase happiness and have better relationships. Theresa is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist in Charlotte, NC and specializes in anxiety treatment, therapy for stress management, separation counseling, and therapy for perfectionists.