Some scientists think that people who spend too much time with their digital devices might not be getting the downtime they need to facilitate learning, memory, and creativity. 
A recent New York Times article citied studies that show that overstimulation of the brain—what happens from being constantly “plugged in”—doesn’t give people’s brains the chance to solidify experiences into permanent memories.
In fact, the researchers say, people learn better, and feel more refreshed, if they take a break from their laptops or smartphones or iPods and give their brains a rest.
Other research suggests that overexposure to technology can make people more impatient, impulsive, forgetful, or narcissistic.
Does this mean that teens who spend a lot of time in front of screens are somehow hurting their learning process? Or are at risk of having their personalities reshaped?
Hard to say. Scientists are really just beginning to study how heavy technology use impacts the brain. So it’s an open question.
But still—doesn’t it make intuitive sense for teens to limit their technology time? For years, we parents have been telling our kids to turn off the TV or step away from the computer. To stop texting so much. To just get outside and play. Sounds like this new research is confirming what we thought all along—that enough technology is enough.
On the other hand, technology can be so helpful, giving us a dizzying array of cool tools and enabling us to get things done quicker than ever. In fact, one researcher praised digital devices for their positive impact on motivating people to exercise, because they can use them—listen to music, watch TV, or track their progress electronically—while exercising.
We at BodiMojo love the idea of using technology to promote exercise, healthy eating, and an overall healthy lifestyle for teens.
But we also very much like the idea that sometimes—maybe lots of times—teens just step away from their digital toys. Use them for motivation, sure, but then take a bike ride, or shoot hoops, or fly a kite. I always remember something a writer told me once: that he gets his best ideas while exercising.
No digital devices involved.
