Effective Uses of Technology to Reduce Stress

Innovation might be to blame for some extra anxiety in our lives; however, we can certainly turn the tables on it and use technology to our advantage. Advances in technology can be used to help us reduce stress, form positive interpersonal connections, and encourage mental and emotional health. Let’s explore some of the ways to use technology to reduce stress and stay healthy.

Wearable Technologies

You may be familiar with gadgets like Fitbit and Apple Watch for their physical fitness tracking. But did you know that some wearable fitness gadgets can help you relax? For example, the Apple Watch Series 3 can help you focus on your breathing by replicating a calming rhythm with small vibrating buzzes, and the Garmin Vivosport has a guided breathing exercise to help center yourself when your heart rate variability (HRV) sensor shows your heart rate or stress level rising.

Apps for Scheduled Meditation

The word “meditation” may make some people think of silent vows and communing with nature, but it can simply be a calming technique during a stressful day or week. Products from companies like Muse will use your brain activity to train you to relax, identify distractions, and apply calming techniques to your daily routine. And Headspace, a tech company started by a former Buddhist monk, offers a smartphone app with guided meditation sessions that can fit into a hectic day and help you deal with stress.

Anxiety Management Apps

Anxiety can be challenging, but technology can help you understand and manage it. For example, the Self-help for Anxiety Management (SAM) app helps monitor your anxiety and behavior and can connect you anonymously with a community of support and shared experience. Getting support can help alleviate feelings of isolation as you find common ground with other people facing similar challenges.

Uplifting YouTube Videos

YouTube can be a great source of humor, music, and positive imagery. Watching content that makes you laugh or reminds you of the compassion that exists in this world can help you escape from an otherwise stressful day and hit the restart button on your mood. Whether you enjoy listening to a comedian who finds hilarity in everyday struggles or undiscovered artists and musicians, videos on YouTube can help you take a breath and make you smile long enough to let go of some of the stress you are feeling.

Maintaining Connections With Social Media

Social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be a double-edged sword. For some, they’re hubs for peer pressure, unrealistic expectations, and bullying for teens; however, they can also help you stay connected with friends and loved ones, leading to better mental and emotional health. Older adults with limited mobility can benefit from the social interactions provided through these sites. Family pages can be created on Facebook, for instance, to help support connections with loved ones even when people are spread out across the country. Local community center pages and support groups on Facebook and Twitter can notify you about opportunities to get involved in your community and find people you share similar interests with.

Online Fitness Classes

Physical and mental fitness often goes hand-in-hand, and thanks to websites like Daily Burn, you don’t have to go to a gym or purchase expensive equipment. With access to over a hundred 30-minute workouts, you can try a variety of routines for just $15/month. Many celebrity trainers, including Tracy Anderson and Jillian Michaels, offer online streaming subscriptions that will make you feel like you have a personal trainer in the comfort of your own home. Feeling strong, active, and healthy can contribute to mental wellness, reduce the effects of stress, and keep you feeling more balanced and relaxed throughout the day.
Relaxing Online Games
Let’s face it – some video games are not relaxing. They require concentration and quick reflexes and can make you anxious as you try to beat the clock. Fortunately, there are online games to help reduce stress. For example, Little Wheel and Echogenesis create relaxing digital worlds with beautiful, calming graphics. And Pigment gives you access to digital versions of adult coloring books which are thought to reduce stress, enhance concentration, and help you practice mindfulness.
Lifestyle Technology
Don’t underestimate technology’s impact on stress in the home. Make life less stressful with innovative smart-home tools, including security cameras, safety monitors, or even a “smart” washing machine or refrigerator. Anything that makes your life easier or puts your mind at ease while you’re away from home can reduce stress in your daily life.

If you experience stress in your daily life, consider the benefits and ease of stress relief technology. With access to wellness programs, meditation apps, online games, and the people you care about through social media sites, you may be able to help reduce stress and feel more relaxed. If your anxiety or stress continues and is affecting your physical or mental health, please discuss your concerns with your physician as soon as possible. If talking to your doctor means comparing your health insurance options first, K.F. Gourgues can help. View simple side-by-side comparisons online from major carriers nationwide or call Kevin at 985-778-0772.

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