Americans love their television.
The average American watches about 4 hours and 51 minutes of TV per day!
While there’s nothing wrong with unwinding in front of the television at the end of a long day, spending too much time glued to the tube can be detrimental to your health.
Here are the top ten benefits of watching less television.
1. Sleep better
If you’re someone who likes to watch TV before bed, you may not be getting the best night’s sleep possible.
The blue light emitted from screens can disrupt your body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Cut back on your TV time, you may find that you sleep better and feel more rested during the day.
2. More time
When you spend less time in front of the TV, you suddenly have more time for other activities.
You could use that extra time to read a book, take a walk outside, or visit with friends and family.
And, who knows?
You may even find that you enjoy those activities more than watching TV!
3. Less unhealthy choices
Research has shown that people who watch a lot of TV are more likely to make unhealthy choices, such as eating junk food and not exercising.
If you cut back on your TV time, you may find that you make better choices when it comes to your diet and fitness routine.
Plus, you’ll have more time to actually cook healthy meals and workout instead of just watching other people do it on TV!
4. Save money
If you’re spending less time in front of the TV, you’re also likely to spend less money.
You won’t be as tempted to buy the latest gadgets or eat out as often if you’re not spending your time watching commercials that promote those things.
Also, save on your monthly cable bill by cutting back on your TV time.
5. Improved mental health
Watching too much television has been linked to increased anxiety and depression.
If you cut back on your TV time, you may find that your mood improves and you feel less anxious.
You may even have more energy to do things that make you happy, such as spending time with loved ones or pursuing a hobby.
6. More productive
When you have more time, you can be more productive.
If you’re not spending your evenings watching TV, you may find that you have the energy to start that project you’ve been putting off or finally clean out the garage.
And, when you’re more productive, you’ll likely feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
7. Avoid negative news
If you’re trying to reduce your stress levels, it may be helpful to avoid watching the news.
The news is often filled with negative stories that can add to your stress and anxiety.
Try reading the news online instead of watching it on TV, if you need to stay up-to-date on current events.
8. Fewer headaches
If you suffer from migraines or tension headaches, you may find that reducing your TV time can help.
The bright lights and loud sounds from the television can trigger headaches in some people.
If you cut back on your TV time, you may experience fewer headaches as a result.
9. Avoid eye strain
Staring at a screen for too long can cause eye strain, which can lead to fatigue and headaches.
You’ll give your eyes a much-needed break and may avoid some of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with eye strain if you reduce your TV time.
10. Improved relationships
Spending less time in front of the TV can also lead to improved relationships.
When you’re not glued to the television, you have more time to talk and connect with loved ones.
You may even find that you have more in common with people when you’re not focused on the latest celebrity gossip or reality TV show.
Conclusion
There are many benefits to reducing your TV time.
From improved sleep to fewer headaches, cutting back on your television viewing can lead to improved physical and mental health.
So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your well-being, consider reducing your TV time.