Strategies for taking a break from digital screens and indulging in a fresh pastime
In the digital age, it's easy to find ourselves spending countless hours in front of screens. For Rachel Martin, a Sydney resident, this was a reality as she spends more than 12 hours a day watching television, playing video games, and creating digital art. However, Martin's life took an unexpected turn when she discovered a new hobby: journaling with fountain pens and specialty inks.
Martin, who suffers from chronic migraines, found that screens are a trigger for her condition. This provided extra motivation for her to seek out a screen-free alternative. She was drawn to journaling not just for its potential health benefits, but also for the cool tactile experience it offered.
At first, journaling was a solitary pursuit for Martin. But as she delved deeper into her new hobby, she found a community of like-minded individuals. Attending meetups for fountain pen enthusiasts in Sydney, Australia, she discovered a social aspect to her hobby that she hadn't anticipated.
Adopting a new hobby can be an effective way to get a break from screens, and it can also lead to a more balanced routine. Being more intentional about how one uses their time can help in this regard. Considering what is missing or wanted more in one's daily routine can guide the selection of new hobbies.
For Martin, journaling helped her reduce her screen time. But it wasn't just about cutting back on digital activities. Enjoyable pastimes can reduce stress and improve mental and physical health, according to research. So, whether it's painting, fitness, or joining a club or volunteering, finding a hobby that brings joy and balance to one's life is key.
If one feels too sedentary, trying a new form of fitness can be beneficial. If feeling starved for creative expression, picking up a paintbrush can be a solution. If needing to get out of one's head, picking up an engrossing book can be helpful.
Remember, screen time isn't inherently bad; it can have benefits if optimized and balanced with other activities. Viewing leisure time as wasteful can diminish its enjoyment and benefits; recognizing the positivity of activities can improve feelings of relaxation, less stress, and happiness.
So, the next time you're looking for a new hobby, think about activities that would be fulfilling for 20, 10, or even five minutes at a time. Test out a few activities for 30 minutes each to help determine their impact on your feelings. And don't forget to ask loved ones for activity recommendations; their personalized suggestions could lead you to your next favourite pastime.
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