If you have noticed an increase in your stress levels in recent years, you’re far from alone. However, the fact that millions of people are in a similar boat should not alter the fact that you need a solution.
Despite the fact that too much tech is often cited as one of the triggers for stress, it can also be the answer to your dilemma. Here are seven simple ways that modern tech can help you fight back against stress throughout the rest of this year and beyond.
1| Learn to keep your devices in good health
Before looking at ways tech can support your mental health, you must ensure that it won’t lead to greater frustration. Sadly, this is a likely situation if your systems are impacted by faults and poor performance levels. For starters, you should ensure that any computer, tablet, or smartphone enjoys regular software updates.
You should also familiarize yourself with ways to correct common issues. Mac users, for example, can visit https://setapp.com/how-to/fix-force-quit-not-working-error. This will teach you how to implement quick responses following application freezes and similar issues. Of course, decluttering your hard drive and running regular security checks will keep the device in good health. In turn, tech time will be less stressful.
2| Use modern tech to create a side hustle
There’s no escaping the fact that money worries are a very common source of stress. As such, finding ways to make money from your computer or smartphone could make your life far less stressful. It is a particularly useful choice when you find a job that you actively enjoy and is more enjoyable than overtime at work.
Some options include selling clothes, making artwork, or starting a blog. Whichever option you take, the extra earnings will help reduce stress from your life. Moreover, it is a chance to potentially put fate in your hands. Should things go well, it could enable you to eventually replace your current job with this project. In turn, you’d be positioned to set your schedule and build a better quality of life.
3| Or find a new tech-based hobby
Using tech features to remain productive doesn’t have to involve making money. In many cases, learning a new skill or finding ways to step back from the hectic nature of modern life can be equally rewarding. Becoming better at home cooking is a great example. However, there is an almost endless list of options to consider.
There’s also nothing wrong with a little online gaming with friends. It is a particularly good option for socializing with friends when you are short of time and money for more traditional activities. The key to success in this scenario, as with many things in life, is to focus on establishing a healthy balance. Gaming addiction will seriously damage your mental wellness, not least because it distracts you from other goals.
4| Combine tech with outdoor activities
One of the chief reasons that people lament modern tech is that it stops people from spending time outside. However, fitness watches and sports tech accessories will encourage you to exercise. And get more vitamin D. The fresh air, release of endorphins, and feel good factor will all translate to reduced stress levels.
Trading gyms for outside exercise will bring a plethora of benefits, not least when you track your progress. Another popular option for combining tech and the outdoors is to take photos of your travels. It’s an ideal location when you have a travel blog, but is also great for documenting your experiences for personal reasons. Of course, this can enhance your social media uploads.
5| Review your social media feeds
On the subject of social media, it is one of the worst culprits for poor mental health. For starters, it is very easy to waste vast amounts of time without any productive output. Perhaps more worryingly, it can create FOMO or feelings of inferiority. After all, most people present lives that are far happier than their reality.
The issue is worsened by the fact that social media algorithms will showcase the profiles that cause those negative thoughts. You can review the feeds of accounts that you follow to aid the cause. The best tip, though, is to reduce your time on social media. Visit https://reviewed.usatoday.com/smartphones/features/10-apps-that-block-social-media-so-you-can-stay-focused-and-be-more-productive to learn more. Eradicating the negative sides of social media will make the positives, like talking to loved ones, more noticeable. Reduced stress levels will follow.
6| Play music and regulate your breathing
Deep breathing exercises are among the most effective tools for lifting stress from your shoulders. Your smartphone or home speaker can be used to support this with audio breathing exercises or by creating a calming playlist. Sound is a powerful thing that takes you away from the stress of daily life.
In addition to meditation and breathing exercises, sound can support your sleeping exercise. White noise, calming music, or audiobooks may be used. Either way, finding a solution that helps you reach the REM phase of sleep will transform your life. Aside from regulating cortisol levels, it will help you gain increased energy and a brighter mood. Better still, it is a single idea that improves around one-third of your life. If that doesn’t inspire you to pay greater attention, perhaps nothing will.
7| Entertain yourself
Tech regularly gets slated for turning us into a lazy generation. However, its ability to kill boredom and change mindsets is incredible. Finding the top comedies currently streaming online can work wonders. Just laughing will actively reduce your stress levels. Moreover, it is something you can discuss with friends, family, and colleagues.
When life gets stressful, it can be one of the best options at your disposal. Not least because it does not cause added physical or mental strain. While you should avoid the threat of spending hours in front of the TV each day, television has a positive impact to play in your life. The whole purpose of home entertainment is to improve our lives and, in moderation, it will. When combined with some of the other steps mentioned above, you should see a significant decline in your ongoing stress levels.
