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Health & Fitness

Too Much of Anything Isn't Good, Even When it Comes to Technology

With a rise in social media and the need to stay "connected," the question often arises: How much is too much?

“The great omission in American life is solitude; not loneliness, for this is an alienation that thrives most in the midst of crowds, but that zone of time and space free from outside pressure which is the incubator of the spirit." ~ Marya Mannes, author and critic

There's no denying the millions of ways technology advancements continue to benefits us each and every day.

It allows us to see a family member living in another state through a simple cell phone. Students no longer need to go to class to learn as they can simple take an online course. Friends don't have to hang out to know what they have been doing as Facebook keeps everyone updated on a hourly basis through pictures, status, post, etc. 

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BUT, Just like anything else in life, too much of anything isn't good. Technology has created the 21st century to be addicted to being “connected” to everyone at all times. For the first time in human history, someone is able to get in touch with you at any point of the day. Many people do not realize that being connected twenty four seven effects who we are as an individual, taking away our freedom to be "alone."

Social media offers the illusion that all of our friends are at all times living in constant relationship, silence is feared. Silence begins to take on the meaning of “missing out” or “loneliness.” When all the world seems busy but you are sitting quietly.

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Although society would disagree, with so many distractions around us all the time, it’s very important that we know what we want. We get into the habit of going where these distractions tell us to go, without thinking about it. They suck up your time from the things you want the most, without you even realizing it.

Personal space is what keeps us, as individuals, feeling refreshed. When you're a part of a group, you're more likely to go along with what the group is doing or thinking, which isn't always the actions you would take or the decisions you would make if you were on your own.

Taking time out from others enables us to, relax, recharge our batteries, learn about ourselves, and return with a positive mindset. 

So try it ! Turn off the mobile phone, tablet, laptop, etc. for 24 hours. Talk to people face to face, open a book, play a game, and come back relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.

 

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