Unplug and Unwind: Taming Screens for Optimal Wellness

What’s up men?!

It is I, the NADS Blogman, checking in.

Today we’re talking tech. We’re an e-commerce brand, so we LOVE tech and are truly grateful for it. But today we need to discuss the power that lies within deliberately unplugging from the tech that runs our lives and the world.

It’s no secret that our modern lives are built around tech. Personal, professional, and everything in between, tech is highly involved. It’s safe to say that we're all guilty of indulging in our screens and devices more often than we should. I’m buried in my screen right now writing this from 40,000 feet up, while bouncing back and forth from phone to seat-back TV watching Sportscenter. I get it. (Thanks FlyFi)

While technology has undoubtedly brought us some amazing advancements, it's more important than ever to consciously build a balance between our virtual lives and the real world, especially when it comes to our emotional and mental health.

Alright let’s jump into technology-life balance and how it affects your testosterone production, hormone optimization, stress levels, and the over-stimulation of your central nervous system. 

Testosterone Triumphs

We know the power of Testosterone by now, as discussed in this post , this post, and this post.  But ironically, the means of education through the digital age can mess with your testosterone levels. Check this post out from Lumes Eyewear on bluelight exposure and its impact. It’s looking like the more you stare at that screen, the more it can mess with your libido and hormonal balance.

Hormone Havoc

We're not just talking about testosterone here. Your whole hormone system can go haywire when you're glued to your devices. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt your circadian rhythm, interfering with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Poor sleep quality can wreak havoc on your hormonal balance. Research from the National Sleep Foundation indicates that people who use screens right before bedtime have a harder time falling asleep. Old news. But this sleep disturbance can result in hormonal imbalances, including increased stress hormone levels. Read our post on why sleep is KING here. 

Stress Strikes Back

Now, let's talk about the stress factor. Prolonged exposure to screens, be it from work or scrolling through social media, can trigger some serious stress. High screen time is associated with increased levels of perceived stress. This stress response can have a cascading effect on your health, leading to increased cortisol (the stress hormone) and decreased testosterone. We know what cortisol does to T-levels from this post. 

Nervous System Overdrive

Your central nervous system is like a finely tuned engine. Overstimulating it with the constant bombardment of digital content can lead to burnout. This over-stimulation can negatively impact your concentration, mood, and overall well-being. Burnout is no joke, trust me. Research published in the National Library of Medicine revealed that excessive screen time can lead to cognitive fatigue and impair the ability to focus. This over-stimulation can leave you feeling drained and stressed. 

The Road to Wellness:

Now that we've talked about the problem, let's get into the solution. 

• Set Boundaries

  Limit your screen time. Create boundaries by designating tech-free hours in your day, especially before you go off to sleep. Spend quality time with family, friends, and in nature. Get outside, daily natural sunlight is literally life changing. 

 

• Screen Filters

  Use blue light filters on your devices, especially in the evening. This can help protect your circadian rhythm and improve your sleep quality. 

 

• Mindfulness

  Practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress. If you're an avid NADS reader, you know how much we stress the importance of incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices daily. These techniques can help you unwind and maintain your emotional well-being.

 

• Physical Activity

  Regular exercise can help maintain healthy hormone levels, including testosterone. Incorporate workouts into your routine to boost your hormone production, and leave the screens at home or in a locker during your sessions. You’re there to train, not scroll.  

In conclusion, gentlemen, it's time to unplug and regain control of your emotional and mental health. The technology-life balance is a critical aspect of overall wellness & vitality, and it directly affects your testosterone production, stress levels, and your central nervous system. Strike that balance, and unleash your inner beast for a healthier, happier you.

Till next week fellas.

NADS Blogman, signing off.