Technology and Well-Being are often seen as opposing ends of a spectrum. We have all heard news reports highlighting worrying trends about social media use, alongside reports of the importance of our mental health – particularly in these COVID times. What is of interest is how we might use technology to support and enhance our wellbeing, rather than take away from it.
To that end, I sent out a tweet asking educators to chime in on ways they use technology for wellness. I got a range of responses, which you can see below.
There were a number of common ‘buckets’ that categorized the responses, which I will briefly outline.
Phones, Apple Watches, FitBits, and Mi Bands were all used to track and notice trends. Some identified targets for the number of steps in the day, others reminded them of bedtimes, to stand or move regularly, while others kept an eye on their usage. Technology can provide data that can illuminate our habits and patterns. This information can help us make positive adjustments and help us identify goals to work towards.
The range of fitness apps available to us at the moment is incredible. From Yoga apps, Couch to 5K, all the way to HIT workouts and apps that do it all (Apple Fitness, Sworkit), there is more choice and opportunity to dive into a healthier you through the use of Physical Fitness apps.
We know that we need to keep our minds healthy, as well as our bodies, and there are plenty of apps to develop this side of our wellbeing too. Headspace, Calm, and other meditation apps can support our emotional health.
Learning and Inspiration
Looking up a recipe, teaching yourself to crochet, or even watching YouTube videos for origami – the internet has myriad ways to inspire and teach you. Develop a skill or take up a new hobby to keep your mind engaged and active. Podcasts, audiobooks, and eBooks are all ways we can learn more about our world.
Perhaps the category we know best, relaxing with a new mini-series on Netflix, or getting a boost of positivity with Ted Lasso on Apple TV+, we have more options for games, music, books, and entertainment at our fingertips than ever before. Play is an important part of well-being, and we shouldn’t apologize for our desire for entertainment.
Communication
Especially when travel has been curtailed in many countries, communication apps are more important than ever. Keeping in touch with family and friends through video chat, text messages, or other social media platforms, we need to recognize that communication and connection are fundamentally connected to our wellbeing.
As we use our technology, we need to be mindful that we are role models for usage. Make sure you share with your children how you use technology as a way to maintain a healthy and happy life.
Photo by Anna Shvets from Pexels
0 Comments.