Sometimes technology is perceived as terrible and addictive to the minds of kids and teenagers. I think it just depends on the way that you use it. When used correctly, technology can be very beneficial. Here’s a list of activities that you can do on your devices to turn brain rot into productivity. 

• Learn graphic design on Canva

Graphic design is one of those things that I wanted to learn coming to Christopher Newport University but couldn’t because I wasn’t able to get into any classes. Canva is one of the BEST apps to use if you want to learn more about graphic design. I like that the majority of their resources are free and you can create the CUTEST things. It takes a bit to get used to, as there are so many different things you can do, but it’s so worth it if you want to dabble in designing. 

• Draw on Procreate

One of my favorite ways to escape this stressful world is to draw. When I got my iPad, I was so excited to use Procreate to draw. This is one of the best drawing apps ever. I will say, it does cost $12.99 to buy on the iPad and $5.99 on the iPhone, but it is such a great way to lower stress levels. You don’t even need to be an amazing artist to use it. Its easy-to-use features allow you to make patterns and draw simple things with ease. 

• Play wordle unlimited

Wordle took the internet by storm when it became viral in 2021 and is still being played by many individuals today. There’s actually an app that you download on your devices to play unlimited Wordle on the go. I find that playing Wordle is relaxing for the brain and strengthens your vocabulary and thinking skills. Plus because it’s unlimited, you can play more than once a day. 

• Learn different exercises on YouTube

Sometimes when I don’t feel like going to the gym, I enjoy doing different exercises in my room. I’m not much of an avid gym-goer, so sometimes I’m not exactly sure what exercises to do. That’s where YouTube comes in. YouTube is one of the best places to find new exercises that cater to you. Whether you want to gain core strength or work on your flexibility, there are tutorials for everyone and everything. 

• Listen to calming music on various platforms

I think listening to relaxing music before bed is a great way to unwind from the day and help you drift off to sleep. There’s also so many platforms you can use to listen to music on, including YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music. Personally, I find that YouTube has the best selection of Lofi music which is great to fall asleep too and even better, it’s free. 

• Documentaries

If you’re really interested in a certain subject, documentaries are great to watch in your free time. Personally, I enjoy watching documentaries about outer space or the deep sea. With a variety of subjects, there is a documentary out there for just about anyone. Whether you are into true crime or the history of chicken nuggets, documentaries are great ways to learn something fun and new!

I hope this list helps you in using technology in a more positive and beneficial way. As I mentioned before, we shouldn’t hate technology because of how addictive it has become, but instead showcase beneficial ways to use technology in this ever changing world.