Need a Break from Social Media?
Wondering what you’ll do with all your free time if you curb your social media habit? Here are five things to try in lieu of doom scrolling that can also boost your mental health, according to science.
1. Go outside. Your parents were on to something all those times they told you to get out of the house and play. Studies show being in nature can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress and improve mood. Physical activity, even a walk around your neighborhood, helps too. There’s a whole beautiful world to see when you’re not staring at your phone. And you won’t walk into other people on the sidewalk. Win, win.
Read: 4 Fun Fitness Trends for 2024 >>
2. Get face-to-face with a friend. You’re used to tapping hearts on Instagram, but when was the last time you saw your BFF, IRL? Research shows meeting in person can immediately boost your mood. Even a short amount of time spent with a friend helps strengthen relationships and increases well-being overall.
3. Find a hobby. The secret ingredient to better health and happiness may be as simple as finding an activity you enjoy. Having a hobby is linked to lower levels of depression and can help prevent depression in some people. Hobbies can include:
- Arts and crafts
- Gardening
- Games
- Volunteering
Any activity that includes creativity, self-expression and cognitive stimulation can help with positive mental health and well-being.
Read: 10 Fun Activities to Keep Your Brain Sharp >>
4. Learn a new language. Sayonara, social media. Learning a new language can improve your memory. In one study, adults who studied a new language showed improved cognition after just four months. Another big brain bonus: being bilingual can slow down dementia as you get older.
5. Read a (real) book. You can travel anywhere and be anyone you want when you’re reading a good book. Studies show reading can reduce stress, make you more empathetic and even slow dementia. What’s more, a recent study comparing online and paper reading found paper was better for learning. So, combine with #1 if you’re feeling extra ambitious.
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