Move and Groove 42 - Unplug

Move and Groove 42 - Unplug

Each year we camp with friends on the Big Sur coastline. We spend all day on the beach playing volleyball, surfing, and having fun. We head back to the campsite as the sun hangs low to cook dinner and relax around the fire.

There is no cell phone signal for seventeen miles. The kids know their phones won't work.

Our kids have grown up with other kids on these annual camping trips. They get along well. They wander and play for hours, coming back when hungry.

They get creative when all they have is sticks and rocks to play with.

They are tired and happy when they come home.

And so are the adults...

Neuroscience Nugget

You might feel like you need to be constantly connected to stay on top of your game. Research suggests that regular periods of "digital detox" can have significant benefits for your brain and cognitive function.

A study by Hartanto and Yang (2016), published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, examined the effects of smartphone separation on cognitive performance.

The researchers found that participants who were separated from their smartphones performed better on cognitive tests, particularly those measuring working memory and functional fluid intelligence. This effect was most pronounced for individuals who were highly dependent on their smartphones.

Unplugging from your smartphone can cause anxiety for those with problematic usage. However, unplugging can improve sleep, cognitive function, reduce stress, and restore attention. Seems like the benefits outweigh the negatives!

Pep Talk

Smartphones are incredible devices that can be used for research, communication, and connection. The key is to have the phone work for you, instead of you working for the phone. Use it as a tool. Here is what I have done to restore this working relationship with my phone:

  1. Turn off all notifications. Instead, batch all your processing on the phone.
  2. No phone at dinner, no phone in the bedroom.
  3. Use with intention for research, communications, or entertainment.
  4. Combine unplugging with nature for a double cognitive boost.
  5. Remove apps that are problematic for you.

By incorporating regular unplugging into your routine, you're not just giving your brain a break – you're enhancing your cognitive capabilities, boosting your creativity, and potentially improving your overall well-being.

So go forth and unplug! Your brain is ready for some digital-free time. It's craving it.

Now, move, groove, and find your moments of digital peace this week!

Be well,

Eric


P.S. Enjoy these resources on your journey:

  • Winning at Work - our signature course on doing your best work, while feeling great at the same time. Access the launch promotion and get $300 off, coaching, and surprise bonuses.
  • Be Well Mind - blogs on neuroscience, sports science, and performance.
  • Schedule a free call - enjoy a powerful one hour coaching session for free.
  • Group Flow Checklist - improve your team's ability to enter group flow for more productivity, innovation, and joy.
  • Friday Afternoon Strategy Hack - when your competition is choosing where to go for happy hour, outmaneuver them with this strategic tool.


I love Kirk creek campground a lot! You wake up seeing the ocean through your tent window, and you fall asleep hearing the sound of the wave.

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