Latest news with #inHumanBehavior
Mint
11 hours ago
- Health
- Mint
Keeping your phone on silent is linked to less burnout and better sleep, according to new research on office workers
A growing number of people are choosing to keep their phones on silent, and new research is showing that this simple habit could be more powerful than it seems. A recent study from Kyung Hee University has found that silencing your phone, especially when paired with mindfulness practices, can significantly reduce stress and improve focus at work. The research tracked 114 office workers, dividing them into two groups. One group used a mindfulness app for four weeks, while the other group joined in later. The researchers measured levels of burnout, perceived stress, work engagement, mindfulness, and overall vitality at three different points during the study. The results were clear: participants who combined the mindfulness app with silencing their phones reported lower stress, less burnout, and higher engagement at work. What stood out was the impact of lifestyle changes beyond just using the app. Those who put their phones on silent and kept them out of sight saw even greater benefits. The absence of constant notifications helped them reclaim their attention, making it easier to focus on tasks and stay present during meetings or creative work. The science behind this is straightforward. Every time your phone buzzes or beeps, it pulls your attention away, even if you do not respond immediately. Studies have shown that after an interruption, it can take more than 20 minutes to fully regain your focus. By muting notifications and keeping the phone out of reach, people are able to group their replies into set times, reducing the number of disruptions and saving hours each week. Silent mode also helps set boundaries. When your phone does not demand your attention, you choose when to engage with messages and calls. Over time, friends and colleagues adjust to this rhythm, learning to text or email and wait for a response. This not only reduces pressure but also builds a sense of autonomy and respect for personal space. Silent mode's impact goes well beyond the workplace. People who keep their phones quiet at night often say they sleep better and feel less on edge. Constant notifications, even for unimportant messages, can keep the body in a state of alertness, raising heart rate and stress hormones. Taking away these interruptions helps people unwind and enjoy longer periods of real rest. There's also a social side. With the phone on silent, conversations tend to be more focused. People listen better, notice more, and build stronger connections. This kind of presence makes a difference in teamwork and leadership, where understanding and clear communication matter most. Choosing to keep your phone on silent is more than just a tech preference. It is a conscious decision to protect your attention and invest your time where it matters most. The Kyung Hee University study, published in Computers in Human Behavior, highlights how small changes in how we use technology can lead to big improvements in well-being and productivity. In a world where everyone is competing for your attention, silent mode is a simple but effective way to take control of your day, reduce stress, and stay focused on what really counts.
Express Tribune
10-03-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Study Reveals Just 3 Days Without Your Phone Can Reset Your Brain
In today's digital age, we're surrounded by screens more than ever before. From scrolling through social media to constantly checking emails or receiving notifications, the average person spends hours each day glued to their phones. This constant screen time has raised concerns among neuroscientists, who warn that excessive use of smartphones, particularly social media platforms, can have a detrimental effect on our brains. The term 'brain rot' has even surfaced, referring to the cognitive decline and diminishing attention span caused by the overstimulation of digital media. Research has suggested that spending too much time on your phone can alter brain activity, and it appears that it's not just the amount of time spent, but the type of content consumed that plays a role. Social media, in particular, has been linked to the release of dopamine, the brain's 'feel-good' neurotransmitter, but it can also lead to addiction-like behaviors. This overstimulation can impact decision-making, emotional regulation, and even our sense of self-worth. A groundbreaking study conducted by German researchers, published in Computers in Human Behavior, delves into how reducing smartphone usage, even for a short period, can lead to measurable changes in brain function. The study involved 68 young adults, ages 18 to 30, who underwent MRI scans and psychological assessments over the course of 72 hours. The participants were asked to refrain from extensive phone use, and the results were revealing. The research found that just three days without constant phone use led to significant shifts in brain activation, particularly in the areas linked to reward processing and impulse control. The changes were visible in neurotransmitter systems, which govern behaviors associated with decision-making, focus, and gratification. For example, the research indicated a reduction in the activity of the reward system in the brain, showing that the constant need for stimulation and validation from digital sources could be toned down after just a short period of phone deprivation. These findings suggest that even a brief digital detox can give the brain a chance to reset, recalibrate, and recover from the overstimulation caused by excessive phone use. Furthermore, it implies that regular breaks from smartphones might not only improve mental clarity but also enhance our ability to focus and regulate impulses. The study highlights the importance of balance in our digital lives, encouraging people to take mindful pauses from screen time to protect and optimize brain health. Beyond the scientific data, there are practical takeaways. Whether it's a weekend spent offline or a daily digital detox, reducing smartphone use can allow our brains to recover and prevent the negative impacts of digital addiction. While it's nearly impossible to avoid technology altogether in today's world, making intentional efforts to unplug could be a crucial step in safeguarding our cognitive health.
