Latest news with #KyungHeeUniversity
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
If your phone's always on silent, you might have these hidden psychological traits
If you always keep your phone on silent, you might be sending a message to the world about how you live and think, not just avoiding noise. People who don't use their phones could be practicing a hidden form of mindfulness that changes how they live their lives, from better focus to stronger boundaries. How does silencing your phone affect your brain? A new study from Kyung Hee University says that turning off your phone could show that you have hidden mental strengths like mindfulness, self-awareness, and control. This shows how even a small change in environment can have a big effect on mood, focus, and social presence. Researchers investigated whether office workers' stress, burnout, and work engagement could be enhanced by a mobile mindfulness training (MMT) program. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cara Membantu Orang Terkasih Menghadapi Limfoma Limfoma Pelajari Undo 114 participants in total were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control groups for the study. For four weeks, the experimental group engaged in mindfulness exercises using the InMind app, while the control group followed suit. Before, after four weeks, and after eight weeks, assessments were carried out. According to the study, participants' focus and stress levels improved after using the mindfulness app. Participants who changed their lifestyles, like turning off their phones, showed the best results. Making the decision to turn off phones can have major psychological advantages, as per a report by Earth. Live Events What are the hidden habits of silent-phone users? Individual boundaries According to Adrian Ward, an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School of Business, having a smartphone nearby can drastically impair cognitive function. The mind can be captivated by even a silent phone. Muting devices can restore focus and a peaceful work environment. By removing the expectation of instant response, the lack of chirps conveys respect for individual boundaries. Friends and coworkers eventually learn to text first and wait, which strengthens the owner's sense of independence. The boundary transforms silence into courtesy rather than avoidance by acting as a gate that opens according to the owner's schedule rather than a wall that keeps people out. Seizing control of your time Silent phone users are eager to avoid interruptions since it can take them 23–15 seconds to regain complete focus. They reduce the number of hours in a week, group responses into predetermined blocks, and separate urgent from noisy interactions by managing notification windows. The brain can anticipate longer concentration arcs and complete projects in less time when notifications are muted. In creative or analytical work, where even a brief pause can shatter ideas, the cumulative effect resembles compound interest, with each saved minute expanding into longer productive stretches. ALSO READ: White House seethes as sculpture shows Trump dancing with Epstein - who are the artists? Practicing mindfulness Silent phones can promote calm and lessen external triggers, improving attention and vitality among Korean office workers, according to a four-week mobile mindfulness program. The phone enables deliberate breathing exercises in place of automatic swipes by muting alerts. The phone is still accessible in case of emergencies, but the silent setting lessens outside distractions before meditation starts. Silence and steady breathing are linked to relaxation, which makes people more present, relaxed, and less likely to shiver under duress. It has been demonstrated that this strategy works well to cut down on sounds that make people anxious. Alleviate tension Even when the message is unimportant, silent phones can lessen stress by lowering the volume of noise that sets the body up for action. Attentional distraction has been linked to increased stress, negative moods, and decreased productivity, according to research. By turning off the ringtone, you can protect your nervous system from the constant barrage of notifications, which keeps your heart rate and cortisol levels low for longer. This lessens the background stress that many employees take for granted and enhances sleep quality by preventing the temptation to check for one final ping at midnight. ALSO READ: Think 10,000 steps is the magic number? It might not be the best goal for you Surging for depth People who use silent phones participate completely in conversations, picking up on pauses and changes in tone that others might overlook. Stronger social support and trust result from this depth, which screen time metrics cannot measure. They are frequently described as "good listeners," which helps them in situations involving collaboration and leadership. As their presence becomes more valuable due to its rarity, stronger bonds are formed. Keeping up with the flow People, especially those who suffer from high levels of FOMO, frequently check their phones in silent mode. In order to break the feedback loop between anxiety and silence, seasoned muters combat this by hiding the phone. Additionally, they turn off lock-screen previews, eliminating visual cues that might entice them to return. Like noise-canceling headphones for the mind, they provide a multi-layered defense against distraction by coordinating sound, sight, and distance. In order to break burnout-prone workflows, the device cuts power once it is out of reach, enabling users to enter what psychologists refer to as "flow." Self-awareness Instead of depending solely on willpower, silent phone users prioritize self-awareness by establishing environments that support their objectives. They schedule introspective walks, establish bedtimes, and set aside time for screen-free reading. A greater message is conveyed by this little ritual: attention is limited, valuable, and best used consciously. They maintain intention and cultivate a more mindful way of living by setting their phone to silent mode. FAQs Does setting your phone to silent really reduce stress? Yes. According to studies, fewer interruptions can help lower cortisol levels and improve focus, sleep, and overall calm. Why do silent phone users appear to be more mindful? They intentionally set boundaries, control when and how they engage, and reduce mental clutter caused by constant pings.
Mint
3 days ago
- Health
- Mint
Keeping your phone on silent is linked to less burnout and better sleep, according to new research on office workers
A growing number of people are choosing to keep their phones on silent, and new research is showing that this simple habit could be more powerful than it seems. A recent study from Kyung Hee University has found that silencing your phone, especially when paired with mindfulness practices, can significantly reduce stress and improve focus at work. The research tracked 114 office workers, dividing them into two groups. One group used a mindfulness app for four weeks, while the other group joined in later. The researchers measured levels of burnout, perceived stress, work engagement, mindfulness, and overall vitality at three different points during the study. The results were clear: participants who combined the mindfulness app with silencing their phones reported lower stress, less burnout, and higher engagement at work. What stood out was the impact of lifestyle changes beyond just using the app. Those who put their phones on silent and kept them out of sight saw even greater benefits. The absence of constant notifications helped them reclaim their attention, making it easier to focus on tasks and stay present during meetings or creative work. The science behind this is straightforward. Every time your phone buzzes or beeps, it pulls your attention away, even if you do not respond immediately. Studies have shown that after an interruption, it can take more than 20 minutes to fully regain your focus. By muting notifications and keeping the phone out of reach, people are able to group their replies into set times, reducing the number of disruptions and saving hours each week. Silent mode also helps set boundaries. When your phone does not demand your attention, you choose when to engage with messages and calls. Over time, friends and colleagues adjust to this rhythm, learning to text or email and wait for a response. This not only reduces pressure but also builds a sense of autonomy and respect for personal space. Silent mode's impact goes well beyond the workplace. People who keep their phones quiet at night often say they sleep better and feel less on edge. Constant notifications, even for unimportant messages, can keep the body in a state of alertness, raising heart rate and stress hormones. Taking away these interruptions helps people unwind and enjoy longer periods of real rest. There's also a social side. With the phone on silent, conversations tend to be more focused. People listen better, notice more, and build stronger connections. This kind of presence makes a difference in teamwork and leadership, where understanding and clear communication matter most. Choosing to keep your phone on silent is more than just a tech preference. It is a conscious decision to protect your attention and invest your time where it matters most. The Kyung Hee University study, published in Computers in Human Behavior, highlights how small changes in how we use technology can lead to big improvements in well-being and productivity. In a world where everyone is competing for your attention, silent mode is a simple but effective way to take control of your day, reduce stress, and stay focused on what really counts.
Straits Times
27-05-2025
- Straits Times
More than a vacation: Jeju's new educational retreats to revitalise regional communities
At the heart of the programme is a simple but powerful idea: education doesn't have to be confined to traditional classrooms. PHOTO: THE KOREA HERALD/ASIA NEWS NETWORK SEOGWIPO, Jeju Island - 'I'm earning credits, gaining real-world experience and spending my semester by the ocean. What's not to love?' said Ms Kim Seung-ju, a 20-year-old university student taking pictures in Seogwipo on the southern coast of Jeju Island. 'This is nothing like school back in Seoul.' What began as a global shift toward workcations — blending work with leisure in picturesque settings — is evolving in South Korea into something more academic: the learncation, a fusion of learning and vacation. On Jeju Island, a place long romanticised as a holiday haven, education is now part of the itinerary. Launched as a full-scale initiative in 2024, Jeju's Learncation program is redefining what it means to study, especially for university students, researchers and lifelong learners. At the heart of the programme is a simple but powerful idea: education doesn't have to be confined to traditional classrooms. Through partnerships with universities and local institutions, students can now participate in credit-bearing projects that are deeply rooted in community engagement and place-based learning. On the southwestern tip of Jeju Island, the quiet town of Daejeong-eup is becoming a testing ground for a bold experiment: Can students save a village? Kyung Hee University's Social Innovation School project, a collaboration with the Jeju provincial government, has been quietly diving into this question over the past few years. Launched under the national Regional Innovation System & Education initiative, the programme offers 15 college credits and requires students to live and work in the area while tackling local challenges through hands-on projects. In Daejeong-eup, the stakes are real. Once a vibrant hub of agriculture and local commerce, the town is now marked by a rapidly declining population and a vanishing youth presence. As young people continue to leave for cities and rural businesses struggle to stay afloat, the program aims to revitalise the region by embedding young energy at the heart of its challenges. 'Daejeong is on the edge,' said Professor Woo Dae-sik, professor at Kyung Hee's Humanitas College, during a conversation with reporters at a cafe built in line with the programme. 'But we believe education can be a lever for community survival. Our students are here not just to observe, but to intervene creatively, sensitively and collaboratively.' Past outcomes include everything from regional promotional videos and community art installations to locally branded products and even village theme songs. One team worked on branding a local tangerine farm, designing practical scarves for farmers and helping reimagine local products. Another group explored how food and beverage businesses could better connect with young travelers by designing and selling original menu items at a local cafe. 'We're not just here to learn,' said 24-year-old Kang Ah-hyun, carefully folding a hand-printed scarf she designed for the local farmers of Daejeong-eup. 'We're here to help a place that's fading and maybe bring some of it back to life.' Locals, too, are embracing the experiment. Daejeong boasts 13 nationally registered cultural properties and Yang Chi-woo, a village cooperative leader, said student projects have helped residents view the historical assets with fresh eyes. 'What the students saw, we hadn't even noticed. Their creativity is something we deeply appreciate,' he said. Jeju's Learncations aren't just for university students. Last winter, the Jeju Institute for Lifelong Education and Scholarship piloted a series of adult education programmes under the theme 'Jeju, Reimagined'. Over 60 adults from across the country participated in short-term academic retreats that blended online learning with in-person experiences in nature, history and culture. This included a literary tour through the history of the Jeju April 3 Uprising, inspired by author Han Kang's 'I Do Not Bid Farewell', and guided geologic walks through Jeju's volcanic landscapes. 'Most people have already been to Jeju two or three times,' said Ms Koh Mi-young, director of the institute. 'Now, we want to offer something more meaningful — an opportunity to dive deeper into the island's identity through carefully curated themes that last two or three days.' This year, Jeju Island plans to expand the program to 2,000 participants. New themes include 'Falling Deep for Jeju's Haenyeo', which brings learners face-to-face with the island's famed woman divers, while discussions with public institutions and overseas universities are underway to tailor more specialised programs. Tea, too, is taking on a new role. As part of efforts to elevate local resources into premium cultural assets, Jeju-grown green tea is being rebranded as both distinctive and refined. THE KOREA HERALD/ASIA NEWS NETWORK Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Korea Herald
26-05-2025
- Korea Herald
More than a vacation: Jeju's new educational retreats to revitalize regional communities
SEOGWIPO, Jeju Island — 'I'm earning credits, gaining real-world experience and spending my semester by the ocean. What's not to love?' said Kim Seung-ju, a 20-year-old university student taking pictures in Seogwipo on the southern coast of Jeju Island. 'This is nothing like school back in Seoul.' What began as a global shift toward workcations — blending work with leisure in picturesque settings — is evolving in South Korea into something more academic: the learncation, a fusion of learning and vacation. On Jeju Island, a place long romanticized as a holiday haven, education is now part of the itinerary. Launched as a full-scale initiative in 2024, Jeju's Learncation program is redefining what it means to study, especially for university students, researchers and lifelong learners. At the heart of the program is a simple but powerful idea: education doesn't have to be confined to traditional classrooms. Through partnerships with universities and local institutions, students can now participate in credit-bearing projects that are deeply rooted in community engagement and place-based learning. On the southwestern tip of Jeju Island, the quiet town of Daejeong-eup is becoming a testing ground for a bold experiment: Can students save a village? Kyung Hee University's Social Innovation School project, a collaboration with the Jeju provincial government, has been quietly diving into this question over the past few years. Launched under the national Regional Innovation System & Education initiative, the program offers 15 college credits and requires students to live and work in the area while tackling local challenges through hands-on projects. In Daejeong-eup, the stakes are real. Once a vibrant hub of agriculture and local commerce, the town is now marked by a rapidly declining population and a vanishing youth presence. As young people continue to leave for cities and rural businesses struggle to stay afloat, the program aims to revitalize the region by embedding young energy at the heart of its challenges. 'Daejeong is on the edge,' said Woo Dae-sik, professor at Kyung Hee's Humanitas College, during a conversation with reporters at a cafe built in line with the program. 'But we believe education can be a lever for community survival. Our students are here not just to observe, but to intervene creatively, sensitively and collaboratively.' Past outcomes include everything from regional promotional videos and community art installations to locally branded products and even village theme songs. One team worked on branding a local tangerine farm, designing practical scarves for farmers and helping reimagine local products. Another group explored how food and beverage businesses could better connect with young travelers by designing and selling original menu items at a local cafe. 'We're not just here to learn,' said 24-year-old Kang Ah-hyun, carefully folding a hand-printed scarf she designed for the local farmers of Daejeong-eup. 'We're here to help a place that's fading and maybe bring some of it back to life.' Locals, too, are embracing the experiment. Daejeong boasts 13 nationally registered cultural properties and Yang Chi-woo, a village cooperative leader, said student projects have helped residents view the historical assets with fresh eyes. 'What the students saw, we hadn't even noticed. Their creativity is something we deeply appreciate,' he said. Jeju's Learncations aren't just for university students. Last winter, the Jeju Institute for Lifelong Education and Scholarship piloted a series of adult education programs under the theme 'Jeju, Reimagined.' Over 60 adults from across the country participated in short-term academic retreats that blended online learning with in-person experiences in nature, history and culture. This included a literary tour through the history of the Jeju April 3 Uprising, inspired by author Han Kang's "I Do Not Bid Farewell," and guided geologic walks through Jeju's volcanic landscapes. 'Most people have already been to Jeju two or three times,' said Koh Mi-young, director of the institute. 'Now, we want to offer something more meaningful — an opportunity to dive deeper into the island's identity through carefully curated themes that last two or three days.' This year, Jeju Island plans to expand the program to 2,000 participants. New themes include 'Falling Deep for Jeju's Haenyeo,' which brings learners face-to-face with the island's famed woman divers, while discussions with public institutions and overseas universities are underway to tailor more specialized programs. Tea, too, is taking on a new role. As part of efforts to elevate local resources into premium cultural assets, Jeju-grown green tea is being rebranded as both distinctive and refined. jychoi@
Korea Herald
26-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[From the Scene] More than a vacation: Jeju's new educational retreats to revitalize regional communities
SEOGWIPO, Jeju Island — 'I'm earning credits, gaining real-world experience and spending my semester by the ocean. What's not to love?' said Kim Seung-ju, a 20-year-old university student taking pictures in Seogwipo, on the southern coast of Jeju Island. 'This is nothing like school back in Seoul.' What began as a global shift toward workcations — blending work with leisure in picturesque settings — is evolving in South Korea into something more academic: learncation, the fusion of learning and vacation. On Jeju Island, a place long romanticized as a holiday haven, education is now part of the itinerary. Launched as a full-scale initiative in 2024, Jeju's Learncation program is redefining what it means to study, especially for university students, researchers and lifelong learners. At the heart of the program is a simple but powerful idea: education doesn't have to be confined to traditional classrooms. Through partnerships with universities and local institutions, students can now participate in credit-bearing projects that are deeply rooted in community engagement and place-based learning. On the southwestern tip of Jeju Island, the quiet town of Daejeong-eup is becoming a testing ground for a bold experiment: Can students save a village? Kyung Hee University's Social Innovation School project, a collaboration with the Jeju provincial government, has been quietly diving into this question over the past few years. Launched under the national Regional Innovation System & Education initiative, the program offers 15 college credits and requires students to live and work in the area while tackling local challenges through hands-on projects. In Daejeong-eup, the stakes are real. Once a vibrant hub of agriculture and local commerce, the town is now marked by a rapidly declining population and a vanishing youth presence. As young people continue to leave for cities, and rural businesses struggle to stay afloat, the program aims to revitalize the region by embedding young energy at the heart of its challenges. 'Daejeong is on the edge,' said Woo Dae-sik, professor at Kyung Hee's Humanitas College, during a conversation with reporters at a cafe built in line with the program. 'But we believe education can be a lever for community survival. Our students are here not just to observe, but to intervene creatively, sensitively and collaboratively.' Past outcomes include everything from regional promotional videos and community art installations to locally branded products and even village theme songs. One team worked on branding a local tangerine farm, designing practical scarves for farmers and helping reimagine local products. Another group explored how food and beverage businesses could better connect with young travelers by designing and selling original menu items at a local cafe. 'We're not just here to learn,' said 24-year-old Kang Ah-hyun, carefully folding a hand-printed scarf she had designed for the local farmers of Daejeong-eup. 'We're here to help a place that's fading and maybe bring some of it back to life.' Locals, too, are embracing the experiment. Dajeong boasts 13 nationally registered cultural properties and Yang Chi-woo, a village cooperative leader, said student projects have helped residents to view the historical assets with fresh eyes. 'What the students saw, we hadn't even noticed. Their creativity is something we deeply appreciate,' he said. Jeju's Learncation isn't just for university students. Last winter, the Jeju Institute for Lifelong Education and Scholarship piloted a series of adult education programs under the theme 'Jeju, Reimagined.' Over 60 adults from across the country participated in short-term academic retreats that blended online learning with in-person experiences in nature, history and culture. This included a literary tour through the history of the Jeju April 3 Uprising, inspired by author Han Kang's "I Do Not Bid Farewell," and guided geologic walks through Jeju's volcanic landscapes. 'Most people have already been to Jeju two or three times,' said Koh Mi-young, director of the institute. 'Now, we want to offer something more meaningful — an opportunity to dive deeper into the island's identity through carefully curated themes that last two to three days.' This year, Jeju Island plans to expand the program to 2,000 participants. New themes include 'Falling Deep for Jeju's Haenyeo,' which brings learners face-to-face with the island's famed woman divers, while discussions with public institutions and overseas universities are underway to tailor more specialized programs. Tea, too, is taking on a new role. As part of efforts to elevate local resources into premium cultural assets, Jeju-grown green tea is being rebranded as both distinctive and refined.
