Do you really know? Why do we get screen apnea?
Jan 19, 2025
Discover the intriguing phenomenon of screen apnea, where people unintentionally hold their breath while using electronic devices. Explore the historical roots of this condition, first identified by a former Microsoft executive. Learn about the health implications of this unconscious habit and gain practical tips for improving your breathing while engaging with screens. It's a quick dive into the surprising ways technology affects our bodies!
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Screen Apnea and Sedentary Lifestyles
- Office workers often lead sedentary lifestyles, increasing health risks.
- Many unconsciously hold their breath while using electronic screens, a phenomenon called screen apnea.
Linda Stone and Email Apnea
- Linda Stone, a former Microsoft executive, discovered and named 'email apnea' in 2008.
- Her rudimentary study suggested 80% of people experience altered breathing or breath-holding while using computers.
The Body's Response to Screen Stimuli
- Screen apnea results from the body and brain reacting to stimuli on screens.
- Unpredictable stimuli, like notifications, are perceived as threats, causing shallow breathing and tension.