Monday

"My time and attention are valuable, and I choose where they go."

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Does too much screen time have negative effects?

• The importance of being bored

• Plant-based pain relief

• How to do a digital detox

• How to protect your pet and your wallet

The Negative Effects of Screen Time

Did you know that too much screen time can have a serious impact on your brain and well-being? For one, it can mess with your sleep by delaying the release of melatonin, the hormone that signals when it’s time to go to bed. Even a few minutes of screen exposure can disrupt your body clock, leading to hormone imbalances and brain inflammation.

Beyond sleep, screen time desensitizes the brain’s reward system. Activities like gaming release a lot of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical, which over time makes it harder to feel pleasure or stay focused. This can interfere with motivation and emotional regulation.

Screens also contribute to stress and aggression by overstimulating the brain. High amounts of visual and cognitive input leave little mental energy, leading to poor attention and emotional outbursts. Plus, excessive screen time reduces physical activity and exposure to nature, both of which help lower stress and improve mood.

The answer isn’t to totally cut screentime out of your life. After all, screentime does have some benefits when done in moderation! It simply may be good to look at areas where you can cut down, and instead fill that time with other enriching hobbies.

It’s Good to Be Bored Sometimes

While boredom might feel uncomfortable, you may be surprised to hear it can actually be good for your brain and creativity! When we’re bored, our brains shift into a “resting state,” where we can process information, reflect, and even come up with creative solutions to problems we’ve been struggling with. This happens when we aren’t distracted by electronics or demanding tasks.

For instance, many people get their best ideas while doing mundane activities like showering or going for a walk. These moments allow the brain to wander freely, generating ideas without the pressure of having to focus on a specific task. This free-flowing creativity is often the result of boredom, when the brain has a chance to rest and recharge.

To make the most of boredom, balance your schedule with rest. Try activities like spending time outdoors, trying something new, or just letting your mind wander. This helps foster creative thinking and allows your brain to process new information in a relaxed environment.

So, next time you find yourself feeling bored, embrace it. It’s a chance for your brain to recharge and find new, innovative solutions.

Safe, Effective Pain Relief—Without the Side Effects

Chronic pain affects about 51 million Americans, with half of them under 45—leading active lives, managing demanding jobs, and raising young families. For them, pain often defines their future. Older individuals struggle with basic tasks like bathing and cooking.

Opioids, steroids, and over-the-counter painkillers come with harmful side effects from long-term use.

Nápreva provides rapid, effective relief. Users sleep better and experience less stress and anxiety. Made from plant terpenes, clinical studies show Nápreva may be more effective than traditional pain medications—without the side effects.

Try Nápreva risk-free with their money-back guarantee and discover the healing power of plants.

Thank you to Nápreva for sponsoring Note To Self. 

How a Digital Detox Can Improve Your Well-Being

A digital detox can work wonders for your mind and body, helping reduce stress and improve sleep. Many of us check our phones constantly, leading to information overload and fatigue. The simple act of turning off notifications or designating "tech-free" hours can make a big difference. In fact, just taking a break from devices can help you feel more focused and less anxious.

To take it a step further, consider making your bedroom a no-tech zone. Avoiding screens before bed helps you sleep better by reducing blue light exposure. You can also take advantage of apps that help limit screen time, like Freedom or Off-Time, to help curb your digital consumption.

Another trick? Try rediscovering paper—reading a book or getting your news from a newspaper instead of your phone offers fewer distractions and a greater sense of calm. And if social media leaves you feeling drained, it's time to spring clean your accounts. Unfollow or mute accounts that don't bring positivity to your life.

A digital detox isn't about completely disconnecting—it’s about being intentional with your tech usage and making room for moments of rest and creativity.

Don’t let a surprise vet bill torpedo your budget

Routine vet checkups are rising, and some surgeries can cost as much as a holiday in Europe. Fortunately, pet insurance can help offset these unexpected costs. With some policies starting at $10 and reimbursing up to 90%, you can keep your pet healthy without sacrificing your savings.

PROTECT YOUR PET AND WALLET

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: False! On average, adults in the U.S. spend over 4 hours a day on mobile devices.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Unplugging doesn’t mean missing out. Sometimes, the best connection is the one you have with yourself.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!