Take a Digital Detox
March 10, 2021
It is close to impossible to avoid screens in today’s world. There are TVs in waiting rooms, tablets in schools, computers at work, and smartphones in most people’s pockets. As technology continues to emerge, and screens have become integrated into everyday life, we are missing out on seeing the world. When was the last time you, as a traveling passenger, put your phone away and enjoyed taking in the scenery outside of the car window?
If you’ve developed some unhealthy habits, a digital detox could help. Unplugging from technology on a short-term basis could be just the break you need to develop some healthier habits.
Some studies have linked excessive screen time to:
- Sleeping problems-lack of sleep is deteriorating to your health, both mentally and physically.
- Social problems-difficulty recognizing other people’s emotions and trouble communicating face-to-face with people can lead to increased conflict. Increased aggression- Some studies have linked aggressive media to aggressive behavior. Think about those not-so-nice exchanges on social media.
- Depression-moderate to severe depression has been linked to higher screen time, especially in females.
Studies show that trading screen time for time in green spaces, such a sitting in the grass or around trees can help improve our attention span and reduce stress. Other studies have linked outdoor activities to helping improve problem-solving skills, creative thinking, and safety skills.
So, keep in mind, when you can’t sleep, have increased problems with friends, family and co-workers, or if you’re feeling abnormal aggressive behavior, you need a little Digital DETOX! Leave your cell phone on your desk or at home and go enjoy some time outside and breathing in some fresh air.
As 2025 begins, it’s time to focus on improving health and well-being. Here are some simple yet impactful resolutions to make this year healthier: 1. Prioritize Preventive Care Schedule check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations early to catch potential health concerns before they escalate. 2. Move Daily Stay active with activities you enjoy, like walking, yoga, or dancing. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. 3. Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods Add colorful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to your diet. Small swaps, like choosing water over sugary drinks, can make a difference. 4. Care for Your Mental Health Dedicate time to reduce stress with meditation, journaling, or time in nature. Seek professional support if needed. 5. Improve Sleep Habits Commit to consistent bedtimes, relaxing routines, and minimizing screens before bed. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep nightly. 6. Strengthen Connections Nurture relationships with friends and family through meaningful interactions. Social ties boost happiness and health. 7. Set Realistic Goals Break big goals into smaller, achievable steps and celebrate progress. 8. Stay Hydrated Drink at least 8 cups of water daily. Enhance it with a slice of lemon or cucumber for flavor. 9. Limit Screen Time Take breaks, create screen-free zones, and replace digital activities with offline ones. 10. Give Back Volunteering or helping others enhances your sense of purpose and well-being. The Bottom Line Focus on small, sustainable changes for lasting health benefits. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling 2025
In today’s digital age, managing your health insurance has never been easier—and creating a profile on your health insurance carrier’s portal is the key to unlocking this convenience. Whether you’re new to a plan or have been with the same carrier for years, setting up an online account can save you time, reduce stress, and provide quick access to critical information. Here’s why having a portal profile is a must for every policyholder. 1. 24/7 Access to Your Plan Details Once you create a profile, you can log in anytime to view your plan’s coverage details, including deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. This eliminates the need to sift through paperwork or wait for customer service during business hours. 2. Easily Access ID Cards Misplaced your health insurance ID card? No worries. Most carrier portals allow you to download digital versions of your ID cards instantly. This is especially helpful during doctor visits, pharmacy runs, or when managing a family member’s care. 3. Track Your Claims and Benefits Understanding what’s been paid, what’s pending, and what you owe is essential. With a portal profile, you can monitor your claims in real time and review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements without waiting for mail delivery. This transparency helps you stay on top of your healthcare finances. 4. Find In-Network Providers Looking for a doctor, specialist, or facility within your plan’s network? Carrier portals often feature search tools that allow you to locate in-network providers quickly. Staying in-network ensures you maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs. 5. Manage Prescriptions Many portals include tools to review your prescription drug coverage, locate preferred pharmacies, and even refill medications. If your plan uses mail-order pharmacy services, you can manage and track deliveries right from your portal account. 6. Receive Important Notifications Carriers often send critical updates and reminders through their portals, such as policy changes, claims updates, or renewal notices. Creating a profile ensures you don’t miss out on timely information that could affect your coverage or healthcare decisions. 7. Save Time on Customer Support Need to update your address, change coverage details, or check on a claim? Instead of waiting on hold with customer service, you can make many changes and inquiries directly through your portal. This self-service option saves you valuable time and simplifies plan management. 8. Stay Organized Your health insurance portal acts as a central hub for all your healthcare information. From claims history to medical expenses, having everything organized in one place makes it easier to track spending and plan for future healthcare needs. Take Charge of Your Health Insurance Creating a profile in your health insurance carrier portal empowers you to take control of your healthcare experience. With easy access to your plan details, claims, ID cards, and more, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and make the most of your benefits. If you haven’t already, take a moment to register today—your future self will thank you!