Let’s face it, teleconferences have been both a blessing and a curse. I’m very grateful to still teach online, but some days it feels like one endless zoom…
Zoom fatigue is real, and a Stanford study published in the journal Technology, Mind and Behaviour: Feb. 23 2021 talks about the need to understand the causes of Zoom fatigue and how to counter their effects on human psychology.
Here is a summary of their findings:
- Excessive amounts of close-up eye contact are highly intense. SOLUTION: Reduce the size of the monitor and faces.
- Seeing yourself continuously on video is stressful. SOLUTION: Use the hide self function to replicate an in-person experience where others can see you, but you can’t see yourself.
- Video dramatically reduces normal mobility. SOLUTION: Where possible, turn the video off, and have a movement break. Schedule at least 20-minute breaks between long video sessions for exercise. Go for a walk or do your 9 minute workout.
- Non-verbal communication on video is harder for the brain to process. SOLUTION: Include “audio-only” breaks in long video sessions and turn your body away from the screen.
Our external world has been upended, and our brain is craving routine and stability. The uncertainty of our post-Covid future makes us uncomfortable and anxious, even though we intellectually know, “this too shall pass.”
Therefore, during this current lockdown, we need to find time to “debrief” and write down those things that work well in our lives and those we want to change.
We need to also watch for the stories ruminating in our head and understand they are just thoughts. Our thoughts don’t need to be our reality. The health of our body is real today and a present for our future self.
Creating the opportunity for daily exercise in our life means; while the world slowly realigns to a new normal, we can maintain our best health to enjoy our future WELLth. It’s your time – access your 9 Minute Fitness Program with the link below.
Live well with Health and WELLth!
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