Screen Time and Your Skin Health

In our increasingly digital world, screen time has become an unavoidable part of daily life. But have you ever considered how all that screen time might be impacting your health?

The Kidney System 101 - Per Chinese Medicine

When we talk about the Kidney system in Chinese medicine, we're looking at something far more comprehensive than just the physical kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract that Western medicine typically focuses on.

The Kidney system (per Chinese medicine) is considered the root of our vitality. It's a powerhouse that governs a wide array of bodily functions and systems, including:

• Hormones and Reproductive Systems: This includes everything from puberty and menstruation to fertility and menopause

• Bones and Teeth: The strength and health of your skeletal structure and dental health

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Your brain, spinal cord, and overall neurological function are deeply connected to Kidney energy

• Hair on the Head: The luster, thickness, and health of your hair

• Ears: Hearing ability and ear health fall

• Brain: Cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity are intrinsically linked to strong Kidney energy.

Essentially, the Kidney system is the foundation of our physical and mental resilience, our growth, development, and our capacity for longevity.

The Digital Drain Impacts Your Kidney System

From a Chinese Medicine perspective, excessive screen time can be incredibly draining to your Kidney system's energy, aka "Qi." Think of it like constantly running an app in the background on your phone ~ it depletes the battery. Similarly, the constant mental stimulation, visual strain, and electromagnetic frequencies from screens can deplete your vital Kidney energy.

When this essential energy is drained, it throws the entire Kidney system out of balance, leading to many potential issues.

Some Symptoms We May Experience As A Result of Over Using Our Devices

• Emotional Imbalances: Increased anxiety, fear, panic, and/or worry can become more prevalent

• Sleep Issues: Insomnia and interrupted sleep patterns are common

• Hormonal Chaos: Noticeable changes in hormones, which can lead to issues like period irregularities or sexual dysfunction

• Nervous System Overload: The body can get stuck in a chronic "fight or flight" response, leading to chronic stress and fatigue

• Lack of Drive: A diminished lack of motivation, creativity, and/or inspiration can kick in, making it hard to pursue goals or feel enthusiastic

Connecting The Dots

So, "What does all this have to do with acne?" A lot. There are specific types of acne that are caused by anxiety, stress, and hormones (Kidney function).

• Anxiety and Stress: Both are major contributors to acne

• Lack of Sleep: A direct consequence of Kidney imbalance, poor sleep severely impacts skin regeneration and healing

• Hormones: Hormonal imbalances, a key function of the Kidney system

Actionable Strategies To Detox

• Set Time Limits: Be mindful of your screen time:  use built-in features on your devices or set a timer

• Regular Digital Detoxes: Schedule periods of time, whether it's an hour before bed, a full evening, or even a weekend, where you completely disconnect from screens

• Tech-Free Zones: No devices during meals – engage in positive conversations instead.

• Prioritize Sleep:  No screentime in bed.

• Go Outside: Spend time in nature

Remember, setting boundaries with our devices isn't a punishment; it's an investment in your health and skin health.