But, if all it takes to combat our collective experiences with digital overload is quality time outdoors, shouldn’t we all be willing to put down our devices? Aren’t we at least obligated to try? For me, the short answer is yes. To some, this simple task is easier said than done. Cynthia Frantz, Ph.D., a professor of psychology and environmental studies at Ohio’s Oberlin College, believes, “spending time in nature has cognitive benefits, emotional and existential benefits that go beyond just being able to solve arithmetic problems more quickly.” According to the American Psychological Association and other relevant studies, time outside would increase our happiness, boost productivity, reduce stress, and tame burnout. We’re more disconnected from nature than ever, and it’s arguably the solution to America’s current mental health crisis. When we spend too much time on our phones, tablets, and laptops, consume too much information, or use more than one gadget at a time, it leaves us distracted, anxious, exhausted, and in severe cases depressed.
The constant electronic stimuli cause our brains to remain in a hyper-alert and distracted state––even when our devices are off. As a result of the pandemic, adults spend about two-thirds of the day interacting with some form of media, and it’s affecting our physical and mental health.
“ Digital Overload” is defined as an information burden from technological devices. We all recognize this, absolve ourselves from the blame, but still accept it, so who’s responsible for fixing it? Are we all still liable?Īs the global pandemic forced us indoors and isolated us from the people and places we love, we’ve likely seen the adverse effects of digital overload. It’s repeated time and time, the automation and technology that make our lives easier also make it just as challenging. So it’s not far-fetched to think someone somewhere will or has invested in innovating technology many believe to be a viable solution to “ overtourism.” I can even travel to remote destinations around the globe in the comfort of my living room.Īccording to National Geographic, “many would-be adventurers turned to virtual reality (VR) to bring them to Machu Picchu or the Galápagos Islands” during the height of the global pandemic. I must ask, how could it be me when I can have anything I want––takeout, groceries, clothes, medication, and more––brought to my doorstep in a matter of clicks and keystrokes? Zoom calls and FaceTime can facilitate my social interactions with family and friends. But the same advancements in technology The Wanderlust Group uses to make exploring the world more accessible have ensured that I never have to leave the lowly four corners of my Boston apartment. It’s not a matter of physical excursion either, as I’ve always remained in good shape and health. Additionally, I love to travel and experience new places. Although I prefer concrete to dirt paths, I still enjoy hikes, camping, sailing, biking, kayaking, etc. I refuse to believe I’m simply a “city girl,” and just not the outdoorsy type.
Not to be dramatic, but I, Janelle Cox, of sound body and mind, admit I am my worst fear, a hypocrite. Still, I struggle with my lack of aspiration to venture outside the safety of my bubble. I have unlimited vacation time, a four-day workweek, and I work remotely. It’s never appealed to me despite all the research, statistics, and my own personal anecdotal evidence that proves we’d all be happier and healthier people if we spent as little as 20 minutes, three times a week outside. I work for, The Wanderlust Group (TWG), an outdoor technology company that believes “the world is a better place when people spend time outdoors, connected to nature and each other.” Generally, the great outdoors finishes last on my list of places to be.
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