Give your screens a rest on ‘National Day of Unplugging’

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — We spend a lot of time with our eyes glued to our phone. This is an unhealthy habit, and every once in a while we can all afford to give our electronic devices a rest. That’s where the National Day of Unplugging comes in.

Specialists recommend only spending two hours maximum on screens per day. That includes TV, cell phones, computers and tablets.

“Now is the best time to be with your family and try not to be on your phone as much,” said Tyrone Brown, a man who is going to participate in the National Day of Unplugging.

Everyone that I spoke to was not aware of the National Day of Unplugging, but they all agree that it could be very beneficial because spending too much time on your devices could have a negative impact on your health.

“The most common effect we’re noticing in the doctor’s office is the effect on your mood and the effect on your weight,” Dr. Sandra Carnahan at Novant Health Oceanside Family Medicine in Leland said.

She says the more time you spend on your phone, the more likely you are to develop depression or obesity. Ways to avoid that: get off your phone.

“You can feel what it’s like to be disconnected and kind of enjoy nature and your friends and family without the barrier of any other distractions,” Dr. Carnahan adds.

A lady named Staci Sims who will also be participating agrees with Dr. Carnahan.

“Psychologically we’re hooked to our phones and just to unplug and get back to nature, get back to your family,” Sims said. “I think you’ll find that it does more for your soul than your phone.”

This kicks in at sundown on Friday, and wraps up at sundown on Saturday, so be sure to tune out.