What do you use social media for? Probably to chat with friends on Snapchat or WhatsApp, check TikToks or follow the latest trends. Sounds familiar, right? But fair is fair: we all know that moment when you notice that you have already scrolled too long again, are afraid of missing something important (FOMO) or just linger on your phone out of sheer boredom. What many people fail to realise, however, is that constant scrolling not only affects your mental health, but also has a major impact on your body. Yes, really! In this blog, you'll find out how.
How does social media affect your health?
We all know how addictive social media can be. A quick scroll on TikTok quickly turns into hours of staring at your screen. From research revealed that about half of young people spend three hours or more daily on social media.
Mental impact
Social media is full of perfect pictures and well-presented lives. It seems like everyone else is having a fantastic time, while you are sitting alone on the sofa. That feeling of "why don't I have that?" may be recognisable.
Physical consequences
Scrolling for hours on end often means the same posture: bent neck, shoulders forward and a phone clutching you. This has serious consequences for your body.
Stress and sleep deprivation
Social media constantly gives you new stimuli. This activates your brain, even when you should actually be relaxing. The blue light from your phone disrupts your melatonin production, which affects your biological clock. Excessive use of social media can therefore increase stress and disrupt your sleep rhythm, which in turn affects your energy and mood.
In addition to doing something about this yourself, our physiotherapists help you too. You read it right, physiotherapy.
How can physiotherapy help me?
Maybe you associate physiotherapy mainly with injuries or rehabilitation, but it can help so much more. Especially if you find that social media and prolonged sitting affect your mental as well as physical health. Here are some ways physiotherapy can support you:
1. Recovery from poor posture
Prolonged scrolling and poor sitting postures can lead to annoying symptoms. A physiotherapist can help you with:
- Learning how to maintain a healthy posture while using your phone or laptop.
- Specific stretches and movements to strengthen your back, neck and shoulders.
- Advice on how to set up your work or study area ergonomically to prevent complaints.
2. Movement as medicine
Regular exercise not only helps you physically, but also mentally. We can help you with:
- Tailor-made exercises. From simple stretches to a full exercise routine to suit your needs.
- Tips to easily fit exercise into your day, such as short stretch breaks or walks.
- Exercises that increase your energy levels while reducing tension.
3. Boost your energy and sleep quality
Social media and stress can disrupt your sleep rhythm considerably, directly affecting your energy levels. Physiotherapy can help:
- End your day with relaxation exercises to help you fall asleep more easily;
- Through regular exercise, which contributes to deeper, more restorative sleep;
- To learn to listen to your body so you know when to take a rest.
Tips for balancing your health and social media
Besides physiotherapy, you can also work on developing a healthy relationship with social media yourself. Here are some practical tips:
1. Set screen time
Use apps to limit your social media use. Less time on your screen means less strain on your body and mind.
2. Create an ergonomic setup
If you spend a lot of time on your phone or laptop, make sure your posture is good. Ask your physiotherapist for advice.
3. Exercise regularly
Get up every hour, stretch your muscles and take a walk. This will help keep your body supple and give your head a rest.
4. Schedule offline moments
Give yourself a "digital detox" every day, for example during meals, right before bed or in the shower
5. Seek help when you need it
Feeling overwhelmed by stress or physical complaints due to social media use? Make an appointment with a physiotherapist to work specifically on your recovery.
Do you still have questions or would you still like to talk to one of our physiotherapists?
Social media can be both positive and negative for your mental and physical health. By being conscious about your use as well as taking advantage of the benefits of physiotherapy, you can find a healthy balance. Whether it's improving your posture, releasing tension or developing a healthier movement pattern. We are here to help you, take contact with us for more information!
