As we navigate the holiday season, let's reclaim our time from phones and social media to focus on crafting a healthier, more balanced lifestyle
The holidays present a unique set of challenges, with emotions ranging widely from infectious excitement, akin to Will Ferrell’s character in "Elf," to a more Grinch-like disdain. Regardless of where you fall on that spectrum, one commonality remains: extra free time often leads to more screen time, especially on social media. Personally, I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with my phone. It’s been a fantastic tool as I’ve navigated my new surroundings in Ontario over the past six months. However, I dislike the dependency it creates, turning into a digital security blanket, always within arm’s reach. Social media shares a similar dichotomy for me. While platforms like Twitter (yes, I still call it that despite its new name, X) have been invaluable for learning and networking, they also cast a shadow of obligation over me. When founding The NutriCoach, returning to Instagram was daunting. Yet, I found myself quickly sucked into the endless reels, echoing my experience with platforms like YouTube.
You might wonder, why would The NutriCoach be concerned with social media use? As a holistic, evidence-based practitioner, understanding the broader environment in which individuals live is crucial to effective lifestyle and dietary changes. While social media abounds with influencers chanting “eat less and move more” as a simplistic solution to weight issues, it neglects the more complex realities we face. The world we live in almost seems tailored for weight gain, offering cheap, calorie-dense, nutrient-poor food options and a transportation landscape that discourages active commuting. Implementing the mantra of “eat less, move more” in such an environment requires immense willpower, planning, and focus.
Enter the smartphone—a device designed to sap the very willpower needed to tackle these challenges head-on. Whether through constant distractions that erode precious time for planning or social media content that can leave us feeling inadequate, our phones often hinder more than they help.
So, what can we do to reclaim our focus and foster a healthier lifestyle, both physical and mental? Here are a few strategies:
- Recognize your phone as a pacifier: Like any comfort item, it can soothe but also inhibit growth. Acknowledge this role and consciously decide when to engage with your phone, be clear what you are engaging, and be clear when to step away.
- Make small changes to reduce usage: Start with setting specific times for phone use or establishing phone-free zones and hours in your home. These small adjustments can open up time for more productive and meaningful activities.
- Redirect your attention: Instead of scrolling mindlessly, try engaging in activities that foster creativity and mindfulness like reading, drawing, or making music. These activities not only serve as a healthy escape but also nourish your spirit.
By gradually reducing reliance on our phones, we can reclaim the focus and productivity essential for making sustainable habit changes. Embracing these small shifts can empower us not just during the holidays, but all year round, leaving more brain space and literal time for planning and leading healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Let's commit to using our time and tools wisely, ensuring they serve our pursuit of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
(Also, yes, I do appreciate the irony that you likely read this on your smartphone after I posted it to instagram 🙃)
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