The ubiquitous presence of technology in our lives has undoubtedly brought about many conveniences and advancements. However, it has also led to some unexpected consequences, one of which is the phenomenon known as “screen apnoea”. This term, coined by Microsoft worker Linda Stone, refers to the habit of holding one’s breath while using a phone, laptop, or tablet. While it may seem harmless, it has raised concerns about its potential impact on our health and well-being.
I first became aware of this term when my partner pointed out my irregular breathing while I was working on my laptop. I was surprised and slightly embarrassed when he asked me if I was alright every half-hour or so. It wasn’t until I saw a video of myself at my desk that I realized I had been holding my breath and releasing it in loud, explosive gasps. This was my first encounter with “screen apnoea”, and I was curious to learn more about it.
According to Stone, this phenomenon is common among her peers, and it often happens when they are checking their emails. The stress and posture changes associated with hunching over a screen may explain this breathing pattern. However, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that it poses any immediate danger or significantly alters our breathing in the long run. Unlike sleep apnoea, which is a medically documented condition, “screen apnoea” is not a medical term and does not have any proven health risks.
Although there is no evidence of harm, the term “screen apnoea” made me rethink my work habits. As a writer, I spend a significant amount of time in front of a screen, and the thought of potential health risks was concerning. While the breathing change may not be harmful, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that prolonged sitting can increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. In an interview with HuffPost UK, orthopaedic surgeon Dr John Hinson shared that constantly looking down at a screen can put excessive stress on the neck, shoulders, and upper back. This can have a knock-on effect on our breathing and overall well-being.
So, what can we do to combat “screen apnoea” and its potential consequences? The first step is to be mindful of our posture while using technology. It is essential to maintain a good posture to avoid “tech neck” and its effects on our breathing. Additionally, it is crucial to take frequent breaks and move around throughout the day. Not only does this help with our breathing, but it also has numerous other health benefits, such as improving circulation and reducing the risk of obesity.
Incorporating breathing techniques into our daily routine can also be beneficial. The military breathing technique, which involves taking a deep breath, holding it for a few seconds, and then exhaling slowly, has been known to relieve constipation. This simple technique can also help us relax and reduce stress, which can contribute to “screen apnoea”. Another helpful technique is diaphragmatic breathing, where we focus on breathing deeply from our diaphragm rather than our chest. This can help improve our overall breathing pattern and reduce the chances of “screen apnoea”.
In conclusion, while “screen apnoea” may not pose any immediate danger, it serves as a reminder to be mindful of our technology usage and its potential impact on our health. Let it be a prompt to take frequent breaks, maintain good posture, and incorporate breathing techniques into our daily routine. Technology has undoubtedly made our lives easier, but it is up to us to use it in a way that does not compromise our well-being. So, the next time you find yourself holding your breath while scrolling through your phone, remember to take a deep breath and exhale slowly. Your body will thank you for it.
