How to reduce screen time

We know it’s easier said than done, but try out these simple tips to reduce your screen time.

1/ Track your screen time and usage

Ironically, thanks to technology there is an abundance of apps that track your screen time, including your iPhone itself. It’s important to take advantage of these programs as they allow you to view and adjust how much time you spend behind your screen. Along with this, many apps now let you set an alert to take a break or even lock yourself out of your phone for a certain period of time.

2/ Create tech-free zones

Creating a space that you acknowledge as a tech free zone allows you to mentally log off when you are in that space. We would recommend making your bedroom a tech-free zone, particularly at night. Ensure you leave your phone and any screens outside of the bedroom, as this not only disassociates your bedroom from a place of stress and work but also allows your mind to use this space for rest and recovery.

Having no interruptions in your room, such as the bright light or text alarm from your phone, will allow you to have deeper and more uninterrupted sleep.

If you are finding your sleep is still affected by screen use throughout the day, there are various products that you can incorporate into your routine to assist your natural sleep hormone cycle. Baxter Blue has developed a Deep Sleep Pillow Mist, which supports your melatonin production and assists in a deeper more restful sleep.

3/ Activities to reduce screen time

Books may seem like a thing of the past, but they are a great place to start if you want some entertainment off the screen. After a long day of work, I am sure most of us are looking forward to binge-watching a show or scrolling through Tik Tok, but try swapping your screen out for a novel, you’ll be surprised by how much your eyes will feel the difference. Not to mention, it greatly assists when you’re trying to fall asleep.
If you’re finding it hard to get off your screen and exercise, a good tip would be to join a fitness group or gym. Once you have made a commitment to something you are more likely to put down the phone and get outside, rather than losing time endlessly scrolling. Plus, you’ll reap the rewards of all those endorphins!

4/ Find products that help you de-stress and give you time for yourself

The online world can be hectic at times, and we often find ourselves in a state of stress or tension. It’s important to take a step away from the screen and take time for yourself. Whether this is mediation, taking a nap, reading a book or getting some fresh air, try to take a break every few hours. If you want an extra dose of self-care, try Baxter Blues ‘Me Moment Trio’. The trio provides you with three essential products that help support your skin, stress levels, and sleep from the effects of digital pollution.

5/ Plan more face to face meetings

We have become accustomed to zoom meetings being our dominant form of communication with one another, however, with the world starting to open up it’s time we get back out there.

Social interactions, particularly face to face interactions, are crucial to our health. They have the ability to lighten our moods and stress levels, improve brain function, and promote a sense of belonging and security.

If both parties are able, try planning your meetings face to face instead of online, this will push you to get outside of your comfort zone both mentally and physically.