While the month of April was Distracted Driving Awareness Month this is Screen Free Week, May 6-12. Officials at USCellular are asking everyone to take the Phones Down for 5 Challenge.

IT WON'T BE EASY ESPECIALLY IF YOU'RE ADDICTED TO YOUR PHONE

The challenge asks people to take a break from technology and put the phone down for 5 days, 5 hours, or even just 5 minutes. Distracted driving is a big problem in the state of Washington leading to numerous injury and fatal crashes ever year according to the Washington State Patrol.

Texting While Driving
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CELL PHONES JUST A PART OF LIFE THESE DAYS

Who doesn't own a smartphone these days right? They're simply part of life. A press release says in a recent UScellular survey 75% say they spend upwards of an hour on social media everyday with some spending more time, 24% spending 3-4 hours a day. But while people spend a lot of time on the internet nearly a third of those polled say they want to take a break from technology.

TRY TO CONNECT WITH WHAT MATTERS IN YOUR LIFE INSTEAD OF THE PHONE

"We encourage everyone to take a break from their devices during Screen Free Week to connect with what matters most," says Sarah Pearson, Area VP at UScellular. "By taking the Phones Down for 5 Challenge or taking a break in a way that works for you, our hope is that everyone can make the most of their screen-free time and foster a healthier relationship with technology."

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
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TIME TO GET OUT, WORK OUT AND CHILL OUT

Take a break from being on your device by spending time outdoors and getting some fresh air on a walk or bike ride. The Great Outdoors offers plenty of exercise options as well. Try going for a run, hitting up the neighborhood pool, or shooting some hoops. If technology plays a significant role in your self-care regimen, be sure to substitute it for peaceful activities during your screen-free time.

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