Unplug yourself
It is ironic to be using tech to curb tech - but if it works, why not?
• Start by silencing the many notifications on your phone
• Set a daily reminder to notify you when you have hit your self-imposed time limit on social media platforms such as Instagram
• For those who like to fall asleep to music, the sleep timer feature on Spotify can turn off the app after a fixed time set by you
Apps for trying meditation
If you have ever wanted to try meditation but don't know where to start, there are apps that can guide you. For instance, ‘Headspace' provides mindfulness exercises to familiarise you with meditation concepts, helping you to reduce stress and improve focus.
E-therapy
Digital tools have made mental health support more accessible. Because of this, more people are willing to start dealing with mental health challenges. The good news is that cogntitive behavioural therapy over videos and apps with programmes for treating depression and anxiety, have both been reported to reduce symptoms.
The current platform, mindline.sg, is one such platform that provides mental health support from the privacy of your home.
Health monitoring through wearables
Smartwatches are becoming more common. They provide several benefits like tracking of heart rate, skin temperature and electrodermal activity to assess wellbeing. Many people are already starting to use their smartphones with apps like LumiHealth and Fitbit. Specifically, LumiHealth is for both physical and mental wellbeing as it includes tips for stress management and other support tools.
Take a breath for the long haul
Periodic check-ins with yourself and the people around you will ensure that you are able to keep running for the long haul.