We get it. Christmas is over, you’re re-starting your New Year’s resolution for the third time and Spring feels further away than Narnia. But don’t let this week following ‘Blue Monday’ get you down, why not unplug and reset your mind with a digital detox?
What is a digital detox?
Whether your screen time is eyewatering or you just want to reclaim some time back to focus on your offline hobbies, a digital detox could be for you.
Just as the name suggests, a digital detox is a period of time where you intentionally disconnect from your device and being online. There are no rules so whether that means you limit your time online or cut yourself off completely it’s entirely up to you.
Why should I digital detox?
Office of National Statistics reports that 89% of people go online daily. Are you one of them? You might also always have a device with you, and it might be the first thing you check when you wake up and before you go to sleep. None of this is a problem in itself, but sometimes spending too much time online can disrupt your sleep, cause anxiety and overstimulate your brain making it harder to concentrate.
A digital detox has recognised benefits such as reducing stress, improving self-image, making people more productive and giving you control over your time. You could even start that new hobby you’ve been thinking about.
How to get started
Like we said there are no hard and fast rules for a digital detox – you make the rules! Here are some tips that might help you get started.
- Set time limits. Whether that’s for individual apps or overall screen time having a target will help you stick to the detox.
- Move your device out of sight. Put it in a drawer or unplug your charger from your beside/ desk. Making it difficult to access your device will make you less likely to be tempted to use it.
- Turn off notifications. Notifications are designed to make us think something needs our attention urgently, silence notifications that aren’t important or better yet log out of unimportant apps all together.
- Disconnect at bedtime. Not only is the blue light disruptive to sleep but the information your consuming can stay in your thoughts which can make falling to sleep harder. Make a rule not to use your device in bed.
What to do with your time instead
Anything, the world is your oyster. You may have just gained hours everyday back in your life, here’s some ideas of how to use that time.
- Start a new hobby. Learn a new language, take up sewing, read more. Whatever you’ve been putting off because you didn’t have time, now you do.
- Go for a walk. Not only is moving good for the mind and body but you might notice the sights, smells and sounds more without the distraction of your device.
- Meditate. What better time to completely clear the mind than while you’re unplugged and disconnected?
- Spend time with loved ones. Cuddle your partner, talk to an older relative or play with a child. Strengthen those offline relationships.
- Explore your creative side. Use the free time to write, draw, paint and see how creative an uncluttered mind can be.
