The Plugged & Unplugged Mind: What happens to our mind when we stay focused/”plugged” into our electronic devices, doom-scrolling and gaming for hours every day until bedtime? I explore this question from a scientific perspective, comparing it to the “unplugged” states of boredom, daydreaming, and meditation. Finally, the post suggests a brain exercise with reasons to move into the unplugged state each day, as if you were going to a gym to exercise.

Historically, the significance of human health and sunlight can be traced back at least 3,300 years. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recognized the role of the circadian clock in human physiology. The ancient Greeks and Egyptians used sunbathing as heliotherapy to treat disease. By the 20th Century, sunbathing was used to treat tuberculosis. We recognized the role of sunshine in synthesizing vitamin D. By the 21st Century, we have both acknowledged the health benefits of sunlight while also advising that we reduce our exposure. A notable discrepancy that remains today!