Why taking a break from using gadgets may be important

 

Why taking a break from using gadgets may be important

 

So you’ve boarded the bus, and you’re about to depart. The trip you’re going on is scheduled to take between 16 and 18 hours, depending on traffic. First reactions in these situations would be to grab a laptop, cellphone, mobile gaming console or tablet. These gadgets have become out go-to boredom control devices, and while they certainly do provide countless hours of entertainment, it is important to remember that as in every other aspect of life, anything in excess could be quite bad for you.

 

There are a lot of opinions out there on whether or not you can be exposed to too much ‘screen-time’. As with any matter of this nature, the answer will usually lie somewhere in the middle of two extremes.

 

On the one hand, exposure to technology and gadgets such as televisions, cellphones, tablets and handheld gaming devices has shown significant increases in human behavior when it comes to things such as hand-eye coordination, critical reasoning, intellect and in some cases even social skills. Studies done in this area have shown that, while overexposure may begin to cause problems in people at any age, moderate use of technology has helped us grow in fundamental ways as human beings.

 

However, overexposing yourself to the harsh light and strenuous use of gadgets such as tablets, cellphones and portable media devices may lead to weakening eyesight, headaches, back problems, carpal tunnel syndrome and in extreme cases even more serious physiological and psychological issues.

 

A pragmatic solution to all of this fuss: moderate your intake, even on long bus journeys. Any activity you take part in during the trip should be fragmented into sessions of around 45 minutes to an hour, with a short 15 to 20 minute break in between. Using this time to rest your senses, get up and stretch your muscles, take a nap or engage in a different activity will help prevent any prolonged problems caused by the screen light and exhaustive usage of your gadgets.

 

Remember to always travel responsibly and make use of rest stops, hotels or guest lodges if needed, Travelling long distances is a draining exercise, and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

 

Citiliner offers semi-luxury bus trips all over South Africa in stylish coaches, at some of the most affordable rates on the market. To find out more about how to book a trip, or for route and timetable information to any of Citiliner’s destinations, including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, East London, Maputo and many more, visit the website or contact the 24 hour customer care line on 083 915 9000.