Activities that are not technology related
One of the biggest parts of everyone’s day is using technology. Even though it's supposed to be a communication tool, almost everyone uses it to an extent that's not necessary or not good for them. As time passes, the percentage of screen usage has increased drastically. The American Community Survey claims that in 2019, 95% of 3 to 18-year-olds had home internet access.
In order to find out how much daily screen time high school students at CSA average on their phones, a survey was sent to them. The freshmen’s average was around 5 hours. Then, the sophomore's daily average was about 6 hours. The juniors increased that average by another hour, taking it to 7 hours. Surprisingly, the average of the seniors was 6 hours and 30 minutes. You may think this is not that much time, but this does not include the time they spend on their computers or iPads doing school/homework. If these hours were added, then the average time would be increased by around 7 hours more. Now more than ever, it's crucial for everyone to do activities that are not screen-related!
A few of the reasons that students should do activities that do not include devices is because their brain needs a break from staring at a screen all day. According to MedicalNewsToday, the overuse of technology may provoke psychological effects such as isolation, depression, and anxiety. Some negative physical effects are eye strain, poor posture, sleep problems, and reduced physical activity.
Here are some ideas of activities anyone can do that are not technology-related:
#1: Exercising: Doing exercise can vary from doing a sport you enjoy to swimming, or even just walking! More sophisticated plans, like hiking up a volcano, can take more time but will definitely be worth it. That way, you will surely spend much less time on your device.
Exercising around nature can even grant you peace! Credit
#2: Painting/drawing: This is a stress-relieving activity and you don't have to be good at it to try it out. Scribbling or doodling in a journal also counts. People used to keep scrapbooks before… Why not begin one now? That way, you don’t really need to “draw” anything, just pick up things that look interesting or keep memorabilia handy to include in your album.
This is one of the beautiful drawings Lucía Salvo, a sophomore, has done. Credit: Lucía Salvo
#3: Reading: Before you say no, consider reading about topics you like, not books you have to read from school. You might end up enjoying it!
Reading has many other benefits than just resting your brain from your screens for a while! Credit
Extra: An activity probably many students do without thinking about its benefits is taking a power nap during the day. It has a positive effect on you because you are resting your brain. According to Sleep Advisor, taking a nap improves learning and memory, prevents stress, boosts mood and creativity, and helps jump-start creativity. Not to mention you are not in front of a screen!