Importance of Connecting with Nature Instead of Your Smart Phone

The Beauty of a Winter Morning

 During the cold winter days and long winter nights it becomes easier to occupy more time in front of a screen, be it a computer, phone or the television. Resist this temptation. From physical eye strain to impacts on learning and mental health, the detrimental effects of the digital age are becoming more and more apparent. These articles linked above are just examples from an ever increasing collection of studies on this topic.

Although you may not be able to limit the amount of time spent before a screen while at work, there are a few things that one can do to alleviate potential adverse impacts. One, stay mobile. Try switching to a standup desk for all or part of the day. Remember though, that standing in one place can take it's toll on the body as well. The better alternative would be having the option of alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day. The key is to keep moving. Two, take frequent breaks. This doesn't mean breaking your employer's rules which may only allow one break every two hours, but it can mean to stretch, blink and do mini-exercises while sitting or standing. Third, get outside. Ideally when you do take a break go outside. Exposure to the the elements of nature - sun, wind, and sound, regardless of the weather, can be rejuvenating. So whether your are taking a walk, or just relaxing on a bench, you will will come back to the office feeling more relaxed and ready to tackle the next task. Getting fresh air becomes even more important if you work or live in an almost airtight building since dust and pollutants can accumulate at higher levels.  In fact, as I write this, it is 30 degrees outside and I have both the front and back door open to do a quick air exchange. Within a few minutes the air smells cleaner and I'm a bit more alert, even if I do have to go and grab a sweater!

An article last year in Time magazine discussed the benefits of getting outside during the winter  including improved mood and physical fitness. Although conditions during a blustery, mid-winter day may be less enticing than a sunny 75 degree  day in June, the benefits can be greater. This is because of winter's shorter daylight hours where our bodies are already being deprived of sunlight and the necessary absorption of vitamin D.

So, next time you get ready to check your social media while being indoors for several hours, grab your coat and mittens instead! If you are looking for tips to motivate you to step away from your computer, check out this link from EcoWatch on Four Steps for doing a digital detox.

4 Steps for a Successful Digital Detox https://t.co/3mMCv37B8I

— WendyW (@NGNaturally) January 15, 2017