Technoestres: it's time to log off

How to ribbling technostresses and having a healthier life

The rewards we receive from using technology are affecting our ability to self-regulate and many have experienced the harmful effects of so-called technostars.

The pressure to be available 24/7 is having a severe impact on our physical, mental and emotional health. We're so digitally super excited that we've developed the idea that disconnecting seems impossible.

But what is technostress?

The term was first used in 1984 by Craig Brod and refers to someone's inability to deal with technology causing suffering. Since then, scientific research involving technology has revealed that our relationship with it is increasingly toxic.

Information overload and constant contact with the screens are responsible for the body's abnormal response when dealing with stress.

In 2 years of Alexa in Brazil after “Good Morning” what we most researched was “What are the symptoms of bornout”. And that gives us a dimension of the side effects of technology and the list of symptoms caused by it grows every day, including: Lack of productivity, lack of focus, problems with body posture, insomnia, panic attacks, anxiety and depression .

But there is light at the end of the tunnel and there are techniques to escape the pressure of being connected all the time and avoid the technostresses.

Reduce unnecessary communication:

You don't have to be dowdy to leave groups that don't make sense. Just filter out messages that aren't urgent, take the time to respond to whoever matters and yes, life needs to happen off screen.

Set time for the social network:

If you need to use the networks on a daily basis, turn off screen notifications and set a time for this check to take place. The use of an alarm clock can be an alternative to avoid the famous after-hours peek.

Write things down on paper:

Since a virus messed up my entire digital calendar, I went back to using a paper notebook. And this is good because you can see in a healthy way all your schedule of appointments, calls and moments with the family.

Yea! Agenda, post-it and notepads are not museum pieces, they are super useful and will help you replace the screen and better visualize your activities.

Relax:

Have you ever stopped to think about what makes you relax? Even for a brief moment? Taking a deep breath on busy days, taking a coffee break or even doing a physical activity are tips for a healthier life in times where our tools are the screens, so create some time to relax.

One thing at a time:

Our brain is not multitasking. As much as it performs super-fast activities it does them one at a time. So focus on one activity at a time. Start by closing the tabs on your screens, defining priority activities and establishing routines that facilitate your delivery, whether at work or in your personal life.

Encourage family, employees and friends to disconnect:

That maxim “Life is made up of breaks” applies to everyone. So encourage others to disconnect even for brief moments, such as at the end of work, or when you need to pay attention to your children. Cultivating a culture of respect for the other's free time is essential.

Technology is on our side when we learn to use it as a means, while we are using it as an end we will have our opinions put at risk, our relationships impoverished and our health harmed.

Disconnecting is necessary for a healthier and more productive life. Think about it!

Maria Augusta Ribeiro is a specialist in digital behavior and Netnography at Belicosa.com.br