Technology – the key to being plugged in positively

Technology and its uses are rapidly growing and evolving around us. It is embedded within our day-to-day lives in more ways than ever before. With such an influence over our lives, it is important that we are mindful of how we use technology and this should be in a positive way. We should be using it in a way to enhance our lives, not to control or harm us. I would like to explore the world of technology including some apps that can be used alongside a healthy lifestyle to have an improvement on our lives. While there are some real benefits to using technology, it is also important to regularly switch off and unplug to give yourself some space to disconnect. 

Technology has been developing at faster and faster rates in recent years. Not so long ago social media was barely a part of our lives, these days it forms a close role in our lives. Similarly, smartphones have made leaps and bounds in terms of production and improvement. Along with this came the explosion of apps for use in all different areas. It is easy to become overwhelmed by the myriad of options through app stores across all types of smartphones. Knowing which apps are useful and which can be easily used, has the potential to influence our lives in a positive way. 

There are many fitness apps dominating the market, choosing one that suits your lifestyle and works with your day-to-day routine could help encourage you to participate in more physical activity. Or better yet it may help you reach those fitness goals. Apps such as Map My Run encourage you to get outdoors and, as the name suggests, run. It’s not just for runners though but has 600 different types of workouts that are able to be logged. If amongst a busy lifestyle, you have limited time, well there is an app for that too. 7 Minute Workout allows you to complete a high-intensity workout in just seven minutes! If that is the most time you have spare in your day, it’s better to complete a little bit of something rather than nothing.     

Apps aren’t limited to fitness and there is many that can help towards achieving a positive mindset. Headspace is focused on helping people to meditate throughout the day when quiet time is available. It provides lessons to allow users to explore mindfulness, helping to promote positivity. We all experience stressful situations throughout our days and lives. Apps like these can be beneficial in helping us to unwind and relax. The more we are able to manage our stress the better it is for our blood pressure and heart health.  

While technology is an important part of our lives, it is also good to take some time out to completely disconnect. I’m sure many of you feel that you’re always attached to your phone or laptop. While disconnecting can seem daunting at first, once you become practised at it, it will become a welcomed break in your routine. A useful strategy I employ is to leave my phone at home. Whether it’s just while you go for a walk, catch up with friends, or even an entire day it will allow you to resist the temptation of constantly checking your phone. If that seems too overwhelming try doing it throughout dinner at the end of the day. Place your phone and laptop in another room and take the time to be mindful of the food you’re eating and the company you’re enjoying. Chatting with your friends or family and sharing the time together can be very beneficial for your relationships as well as your mindset.  

Technology definitely comes with many benefits to its uses, yet as it evolves so too does our need to manage our use. Try to take some time out from the screen and use this time to do something you enjoy such as a walk or grabbing a coffee with a friend. It may be difficult at first but after a few goes your mind and body will thank you.