Tech-Wise Living: Practical Tips for Cultivating Wellness in a Digital Home

September 20, 2023  |  5 min read

Lauren Van Woerden

Lauren Van Woerden

In today’s rapidly evolving world, our homes are increasingly intertwined with technology. From smartphones to smart appliances, our lives have become more convenient and connected than ever before. 

This blog is actually inspired by a conversation my husband brought up recently. He does seriously deep-dive research before purchasing anything, and we recently learned about the intense affects that an air purifier–a seemingly helpful tool–can actually have on the wellbeing of your home.  

And to add to that, our most commonly used gadgets–smartphones, tablets, and laptops–send and receive messages without physical connectivity, but rather different kinds of energy that we can’t see or feel. 

The jury is out on any practical research about these health effects, but I followed suit and did my own deep dive into the things my family could start doing to minimize the unknown health affects of technology in our homes. 

What You Don’t See

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are generated by electrical devices and power lines. Although a vast majority of EMFs we encounter are at levels deemed safe, some studies suggest that long-term exposure to high levels of EMFs might have potential health implications. 

Health concerns linked to EMF exposure include disruptions to sleep patterns, increased stress levels, and even the possibility of affecting cellular functioning (in your body… not your mobile phone). 

Radio waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation used for wireless communication in devices such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, and cordless phones. These waves are generally considered safe in everyday usage, but research is ongoing to understand the extent of these their long-term impact on cellular health and potential contribution to cancer risk. 

Keep Your Distance

Minimizing exposure to radio waves and EMFs is important to consider when creating a tech-safe home. Thoughtful positioning and maintaining a safe distance from devices emitting these energies are key:

  1. Device Placement
    Place devices that emit radio waves, such as Wi-Fi routers and cordless phones, away from frequently occupied areas. Position them in locations where they are not immediately next to where you or your kids spend most of your time.
  2. Reduce Phone Proximity
    When using smartphones, consider holding them away from your body, especially during prolonged conversations. Use speakerphone or wired earphones to maintain a safer distance from your head. If you sleep with your phone for an alarm, put it on airplane mode overnight.
  3. EMF Sources
    Identify sources of strong EMFs, such as electrical panels and power lines in or near your home and keep a safe distance from these sources when spending extended periods nearby.

This knowledge shouldn’t bring you to fear, but rather empower you with awareness. Admittedly, some of this is difficult to avoid, but by adopting mindful practices that minimize exposure, we can embrace technology’s benefits while safeguarding our family’s well-being.

Other Household Tech Considerations

Did you know there are other in home products with known health concerns you should be aware of? Take a moment to explore the potential impact of devices like air purifiers, microwaves, and smart home systems to make mindful choices regarding their usage and the effect on your family’s well-being. 

Consider researching these things:

  • Air Purifiers:  filter types and ozone emissions
  • Microwaves:  leakage and materials used for heating
  • Smart Home Systems:  increased EMF & RF exposure

Cultivating a Tech-Safe Home Culture

We’re not going for perfect here. Like I said, awareness is the way to start making small changes one at a time. 

Create Your Own Family Guidelines

As new devices enter your home, assess their potential health impacts and incorporate guidelines for their responsible use. This ongoing commitment ensures that your family’s tech habits remain aligned with your well-being priorities. Regularly evaluate and update your family’s tech safety guidelines to align with the latest insights.

Teach Your Kids About Tech Safety

Engage in age-appropriate conversations about radio waves, electromagnetic fields, and responsible gadget use. Explain that while technology offers many benefits, it’s essential to strike a balance and avoid excessive exposure. Encourage them to minimize direct contact with wireless devices and adopt habits that prioritize well-being.

Be Open About Technology and Its Role in Family Wellness

Communication is the cornerstone of a healthy tech-safe home culture. Promote open discussions about tech safety within your family. Create an environment where questions are encouraged, concerns are addressed, and insights are shared. 

Through these conversations, you’ll not only educate your children but also learn from their perspectives, enriching your approach to tech safety. Because–you know–kids can say the darndest things!

Conclusion

When you embody these practices, you’re nurturing a foundation that goes beyond just managing tech’s unseen health effects. You’re building a culture where technology coexists with well-being, where informed choices take precedence, and where family members feel empowered to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.

I wish you the best of luck in your pursuit of creating a tech-wise haven for you and your family. One small step at a time if that’s what it takes.

Tech-Wise Living: 3 Practical Tips for Cultivating Wellness in a Digital Home