Technology use is increasing in our daily lives, from use of smart phones and watches, computers and even home appliances. This increased exposure to electrical magnetic fields (EMF’s) has an impact on the brain. It is important to understand its effects and how to keep its use to our advantage, and not our detriment.
Positive Effects
Improves Mental Executive Function. Einstein was once asked, What is the circumference of the earth? to which he replied, I don’t keep information in my head that I can look up…. Using apps to remember information such as contacts, appointments, etc. can free up the brain to be able to plan time use, problem solve, and organize among other things. Apps and games have also been developed to stimulate the brain and increase memory.
Provides more access to learning. Technology has been utilized to make available formal and informal learning opportunities. Classes and seminars are available online, and video tutorials on YouTube can show us how to fix things or learn a new skill. Dr. Jordan B. Peterson has made it his mission to recruit the best of the best teachers from various subject matters to provide online courses for a fraction of the cost it would be by going to a college or university at his Peterson Academy. Ongoing learning is important for the brain needs continual stimulation. As the brain processes new information, new neural connections are made which helps maintain and improve one’s cognitive abilities.
Convenience One can see photos/read stories on what friends are up to through social media as you are available, or have video chats without needing to travel. One can be reminded to exercise or pray. One can turn on/off appliances while away, or be notified of issues that need attention, even monitor who is at your front door and make it seem like you are at home!
Negative Effects
Can make it hard to focus. Technology shortens attention spans and lowers patience. Scrolling has us used to quick bites of info, and even an addiction to dopamine from getting favorable emoji’s or comments on our posts. The distractions caused by technology (e.g. emails, texts, and app alerts) make it harder to concentrate on the task at hand, and disruptions lower efficiency.
Overreliance can cause depression and social anxiety. We can order food online, shop and bank online, text friends… and that isolation can lead to depression. Social anxiety, can result from seeing just the best from others smiling selfies, travel, etc. and comparing that to one’s own reality. We need in person connections and community to be a part of to experience real happiness.
Disrupts sleep. Not only does a digital device stimulate the brain to be awake, the blue light emitted from them interferes with melatonin production which affects the sleep-wake cycle (slow to sleep and waking up too early). Chronic sleep loss is associated with several physical health problems as well, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, heart attack, and stroke.
Exposes us to more radiation Besides the concentration of radiation from holding a cell phone close to our head (shown to be damaging), there is exposure in the air from WIFI routers in the home and everywhere with cell towers. There are products to help cut down personal EMF exposure, such as a wire mesh cage or sleeve for wifi routers, a protective cover for cell phones, and clothing to deflect EMF from cell phone towers.
Some healthy Lifestyle Solutions:
Finally, some people have a weekly detox day on Sundays and put away phones to just be present to family and to life. For those with a stronger struggle with feeling peaceful or getting good sleep, experts recommend a camping trip far from cell towers and get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. John 14:27
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