A new message from a friend, yet another news update about national affairs, or an important email—throughout the day, we receive countless stimuli that affect our daily functioning. In this article, we explain when it’s worth going offline and how to do so in the 21st century.
Health and the Offline Function
A decline in well-being is often linked to overstimulation. A few decades ago, this concept didn’t even exist. Yet today, in a world of smartphones, tablets, laptops, or smartwatches, it’s quite common. Unfortunately, we use these devices not only at work but also at home when relaxing. After a full day of responsibilities, we end up sitting in front of… a TV or smartphone to watch a movie or browse social media. Essentially, it’s another dose of blue light and electromagnetic fields.
Source: Pixabay
Do you often scroll online in bed just before falling asleep—chatting with friends or looking at inspirational photos? Maybe you watch videos to relax? Nowadays, a smartphone is a massive hub of entertainment and information, all in one device, so it’s incredibly easy to use. But it’s not the best habit. Ultimately, your brain is constantly processing stimuli and information, which keeps your nervous system engaged. The blue light from a smartphone also reduces the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for healthy sleep. Low melatonin levels leave your body unregulated. In the evening, instead of winding down, it remains active and alert. This can lead to further issues like trouble concentrating or even making decisions. Overstimulation affects the body in such a way that it can’t process or absorb more information—even when it’s essential.
Source: Pixabay
How to Stay Healthy Without Overstimulation?
In reality, it’s impossible to completely disconnect from technology in today’s world. Still, it’s necessary to guard against overstimulation, which can be dangerous for proper functioning. This protective strategy requires effort, awareness, reflection, and careful evaluation of your daily habits. At bedtime, your body needs calm so it can fully recharge. One way to achieve this is to put aside your phone and other devices at least three hours before sleeping. This isn’t about disconnecting from social life or ceasing to be a consumer, but rather about how we spend our free time.
Reducing your phone use to a minimum will enhance your well-being by helping your internal clock run more smoothly. Start small: our nightstand was designed with this in mind, featuring a special spot where your phone automatically loses its signal. You don’t need to switch it off, yet you’ll still be sure your morning alarm will ring. Small changes in daily habits prevent unnecessary information from bombarding your brain, letting you enjoy rest, balance, and tranquility.
What else helps you stay offline?
- A solid block of uninterrupted sleep,
- Physical exercise,
Pictured: Wooden Vogel M desk
- Cooking and sharing meals with loved ones,
- Spending time in nature,
Pictured: Beech hygrometer
- Relaxing with a book, coloring, or music.
Pictured: Vogel M wooden desk and Spill coffee table
More About Our Nightstand with an Offline Function
Enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep and live in harmony with your body. Our nightstand with an offline feature can help you do just that. It has a special pouch created by widening one compartment and shrinking another. Interestingly, you’ll find a hand-sewn fabric inside, responsible for blocking cell phone signals. Modeled after a Faraday cage, the fabric uses a coating that disperses electric currents generated by electromagnetic fields, including Wi-Fi and other signals. Simply place your phone in the pouch, and the offline function will help you unwind.
We’ll spend practically the rest of our lives with phones—remember that sensible usage is entirely safe.
