4 Steps to a Successful Digital Detox
In today’s fast-paced, high-tech world, your phone can prove to be more distracting than helpful. Sometimes you just need to peel yourself away from the digital screens that have become a near-constant presence and take some time away for a digital detox. Check out some of the tips below to help you unplug, unwind, and recharge.
Step 1: Timing + Prep
Digital detoxes are easier on a free weekend since we usually don't have to be on call for work. Or try it during a vacation (leave your phone in your hotel room while you explore!) It's fun to take analog photos so pick up a disposable camera before you leave for your trip to create memories in an old-school cool way.
Plan ahead accordingly. Print out and research any info before the weekend. For example, going to a museum or park to decompress? Make sure to print out directions ahead of time). Set aside your phone and laptop in a cupboard if you're going cold-turkey. Alternatively, leave your phone in the glove compartment in your car when you're out and about.
Step 2: Disable notifications
One of the quickest ways to toggle your connectivity with the digital world is to unsubscribe notifications (bonus point for airplane mode!), which blocks incoming calls and messages. A constant influx of notifications is distracting, and you’ll feel a sense of relief when you get rid of the constant pull to check your phone.
Step 3: Stay busy
Keep yourself occupied by planning a museum trip, book a massage, snuggle up with a good book, attend to a show, a picnic in the park, hit the beach, breathe at yoga, participate in a cooking class, or taking a neighborhood stroll. It's a perfect time to dive into all the things you wanted to do. Whether it's working with your hands and getting crafty or connecting irl with a friend, enjoy a distraction-free weekend. You might find yourself unconsciously reaching for your phone at times!
Step 4: Enjoy sleep!
We often reach for our phones at night but without the blue-light from screens, our brains can finally take an uninterrupted rest. Natural melatonin production is disturbed by cell phones so it's a great excuse to recharge properly.
Pamper yourself, light a candle, and wind down with some relaxing aromatherapy before bed. Lavender has been scientifically proven to release tension and promote relaxation.
Waking up to alarming news also triggers our stress system so enjoy the experience of waking up without a phone. The time going to bed and waking up is for you!
Give yourself time to think and a great way to really appreciate this time is to journal and write it all out. When's the last time you gave yourself a break? Good luck with your digital detox!
