It’s often a common scene on morning commutes anywhere in the world, and what’s worse, many of these people are travelling to their jobs where they will sit down for eight hours that day in front of a computer screen, AND then use a screen again when they go on their lunch break.
A study in the American Psychological Association looked at how nearly 500 workers took their work breaks in Korea - some went for walks, and others used their smartphones to message friends or watch videos. Those who used their phones were severely more emotionally exhausted than those who chose to go out into the world.
It’s a sign of the times, particularly after Covid-19, when everything became digital, and the line between work and home was blurred. It’s extremely tempting to open up emails or scroll through social media at any time of the day. Countries, including China and South Korea, already treat excessive Internet use among teenagers through counselling and boot camp-style treatment centres.
It’s also being treated in South Africa unofficially, but the natural world provides the ultimate way to plug out and enjoy a successful digital detox.
Signs you are addicted to the internet
While internet addiction is not yet an officially recognised mental disorder, researchers have formulated diagnostic criteria for Internet addiction, and there are at least three subtypes of Internet addiction: video game addiction, cybersex or online sex addiction, and online gambling addiction.
Ask yourself: if you stay online longer than you intended, hear other people in your life complain about how much time you spend online, try but fail to cut down on how much time you spend online or hide how long you’ve been online.
If any of these situations are coming up on a daily basis, you may be addicted to the Internet. Other signs include withdrawal symptoms such as anger, tension, sleep deprivation and depression when the internet is not available.
Four ways South Africa’s serenity can transform you
1. Healthy distractions
At White River Manor, sunshine pours through the windows in the morning; the Kruger National Park is nearby, offering no better chance to seek peace and quiet than the home of wild animals. White River Manor even offers day safari tours, as well as the opportunity to mountain bike or hike through mountain and forest scenery, canoe on the Sabie River or relax by the stunning Komati River. There are plenty of things to distract you from digital temptations.
2. Newfound perspective
The stunning natural world here will remind you of the larger world beyond the screen, a world worth exploring and immersing yourself in.
3. New inspiration
When you are feeling lost or stuck, spending time in nature can help you find new ideas and new ways of looking at things. You might even think of that book idea, or podcast, whatever it may be, but at least your mind is whirring and not passively looking at photos on some endless pit on social media.
4. Feeling connected
But not in the online sense! In the way that your senses are stimulated by the natural beauty around you, the sun on your skin, the wind in your hair, the smells and sights - a reminder that a digital detox is the best thing you could do for yourself to get you feeling back on track.
We’re here to help. Contact White River Manor today for a free and confidential consultation.
