The Net Effect
How the digital era shapes our health & happines
The Internet & social media as a contradictory modern marvel
There is no denying it: being online is awesome. It has simplified the way we eat, engage, exercise, learn, shop, work and do pretty much everything we do in our daily lives. Put simply, going digital has made our lives easier, but unlike most things that come easy, the Internet, its apps, platforms and websites have their drawbacks.
The downsides of being online
The Internet’s explosion - coupled with rapid advancements in technology - has been a driving factor in myriad global health problems, having a direct correlation to bulimia, gaming addiction low self-esteem stress and other major health concerns.
Its effect on relationships
Have you ever been out with friends or at home with your family and noticed that you’re all on your smartphones? You could be watching a film you’ve all wanted to see since that first tantalising trailer but instead you’re all swept up in random listicles, nasty news headlines, social media and random video clips. You can’t ask anyone you’re with about what’s happening because no one else has been paying any attention either!
This is a common theme in friendship groups and households across the world, and whilst it may seem innocuous, research indicates that extensive time online is linked to feelings of social isolation, a leading cause in feelings of depression and worthlessness.
What we propose
We here at The Mindful Site aren’t here to tell you to give up the internet like some tech-hating Luddites - we’re here to remind you that you can have a positive relationship with the internet whilst keeping touch with what is really going on around you.
Sure, the internet is always going to play an important role in our daily lives, especially as most of us need it to both work and socialise, but there is always time to turn away from the laptop or put down the smartphone and take a few deep breaths.