5 Steps To A Healthy And Secure Digital Wellness Routine

By Your Health Magazine

Your Health Magazine

. http://yourhealthmagazine.net

More Health Technology Articles

5 Steps To A Healthy And Secure Digital Wellness Routine

Being constantly plugged in is considered to be a good thing since it allows us to have instant access to information and resources, and it keeps people updated on everything that’s going on around the world. However, it also has a negative impact on our wellbeing since it can increase our risk of developing physical, mental, and emotional issues. Key findings from a Digital Wellbeing study has revealed that 51 percent of participants said that their sleep was negatively impacted by the time they spent online, while 32 percent said that being constantly online had a bad effect on their diet. The research also showed that most of the participants’ study and exercise habits took a downturn due to their Internet use.

Since our lives are deeply intertwined with technology, it’s up to us to cultivate a healthy relationship with tech tools and devices to support our wellbeing. By prioritizing digital wellness, you can enjoy the benefits of modern technology without sacrificing your health, safety, or happiness. Here are 5 steps to create a healthy and secure digital wellness routine.

Protect Your Privacy 

Protecting your online privacy is an integral part of digital wellness since it safeguards your mental health. Knowing that your digital information is safe can prevent stress, and it also reduces anxiety about online exposure. It’s the reason why hospitals use healthcare managed security services since healthcare institutions are a prime target of cybercriminals. Keeping patients’ data secure using advanced solutions not only guarantees accurate records for better treatments, but it also protects them against identity theft or fraud.

To keep your data safe, use strong passwords, install security software, and see to it that your devices and apps are regularly updated. Never click on suspicious links, and avoid downloading apps or content from questionable sites. Also, be careful about sharing information online, and be intentional about what you share on your social media pages. 

Know How Much Time You Spend on Devices

Have you ever had a day where it seems like you did nothing but surf the Internet or scroll through your social media accounts? Ever missed an appointment or forgot to do an important task due to being online? If your time is mostly spent on online activities, it may be a good idea to actively track how much time you actually spend on your devices. 

Tracking device time is essential for your wellbeing since it helps to prevent eye strain and headaches due to prolonged screen use. It may even identify unhealthy behaviors that most smartphone users aren’t aware of, such as compulsive checking or scrolling. To track your screentime, use built-in apps like iPhone’s Screentime or Android’s Digital Wellbeing, or use a third-party app like ActionDash.

Spend Your Downtime Offline

Most employees check social media during working hours, with 77 percent admitting to use social media while they’re on the clock. What’s more, a lot of office workers choose to spend their downtime online shopping, checking their Instagram or Twitter feeds, or watching funny clips on TikTok or YouTube. Spending your free time online can have consequences for your health since it enables you to have a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to back pain and obesity, among others. To improve your digital wellness, take a break from your screen by going on short walks during breaks, or talking to a coworker. You may also want to do simple stretching exercises to ease aches and pains due to prolonged sitting. 

Don’t Reach for Your Phone when You’re Bored

Many people experience discomfort when they need to stay still or if they have to do something boring and tedious, like waiting in line. To deal with this, they often reach for their phones to be entertained or have something to do. But reaching for your phone when you’re bored can lead to doomscrolling, leading to anxiety and feelings of loneliness. Instead of using your phone, try striking up a conversation with people, or bring a book and read it. You may also want to practice mindfulness by taking deep breaths to stay present, or just observe the people around you. Doing these things instead of using your phone encourages problem solving and creative thinking, and these also allow you to create real-world connections.

Be Intentional

To be accountable for your digital activity, you need to be intentional with the things you do. Make a plan to do deep, focused work for a certain amount of time everyday, then schedule frequent breaks to give your mind and body some time to rest. Set a limited time for online activities, and see to it that you stick to your self-allotted time for social media or watching videos. Finally, once you disconnect, make sure to disconnect fully. Avoid checking work apps once you’ve clocked out, and turn off your phone before going to bed. 

Mindful use of apps and devices can benefit your physical and mental health. Manage your screentime and practice safe online habits, and prevent technology from having a negative effect on your happiness and wellbeing.