There are so many screens now competing for our attention, and most importantly many types of content vying to engage with us, from smartphones, social media, streaming, email, apps, it sometimes is easy to overlook the effects it has on our mental health. If you find yourself just overwhelmed with anxiety and have no clue where it’s coming from, rest assured it’s coming from one of your digital devices. This is where a digital detox comes in. What is it? It’s basically a practice of unplugging from technology to recharge and reconnect with the beautiful world around us.
Is it necessary? I believe so, but let’s take a look at the effect of technology on mental health.
Constant exposure to all of our screens can lead to a variety of negative experiences, including stress, anxiety, and depression. Seeing content online about something alarming that’s happening on the other side of the world can cause you stress. Viewing videos of influencer traveling and living their best life can make you feel depressed. The endless stream of notifications, or lack thereof, can make you feel mentally exhausted and will contribute to you feeling pressured and missout out on some of the simpler things in life that could before bring you joy.
When you go on a digital detox - unplugging from phones, digital devices - or just taking a break from technology, it can give your mind a much-needed rest. It can also help you gain clarity, connection and re spark your creativity.
So, how do you unplug? Let’s look at some few suggestions that have helped me over the years to find balance and focus.
Set Boundaries: The best way to start is to set boundaries around technology. You can create times in the day when you’re allowed to use social media for example. I only use social during lunch for 30 minutes, while I eat. I stay away from it for the rest of the day. You can also create it for all digital devices as a start. Maybe creating an off-limit zone in your living room or bedroom might work for you.
Mindful Consumption: Use technology with intention. Try choosing activities that are going to nurture your mind, body, and soul. Maybe instead of watching an influencer travel the world, use social media to gain a new skill. Perhaps you can set up a rule that you'll only use YouTube to learn how to cook or purchase a new bike. Technology is a marvelous thing but it can be only marvelous if we use it to our advantage.
Declutter: Go through your social media and do some spring cleaning. Do you really need to follow those accounts? Do some reflection, the last time you consumed an influencer's content, how did that make you feel? If it didn’t inspire you, then maybe it’s a good idea to unfollow them. Also, look at all the apps on your phone and tablet. I can promise you there’s more than a handful that haven't been used in a while. Delete them.
Offline Activities: Grab a piece of paper and write down all the things that bring you joy. Cooking, reading, coloring, writing, painting, gardening are all examples of hobbies that can nourish your soul and help you in your digital detox era.
Go Back To Nature: There’s something to be said about the calming effects walking has on the mind, it’s just one of the most effective ways to feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Perhaps that looks like a hike for you, or maybe just sitting outside for an extra 30 minutes. Don’t underestimate nature, it can really help ground us and help us realize the things that truly matter.
Remember, the goal here is not to necessarily remove digital devices, social media or technology from your life. But to find a healthier balance that allows you to use the best aspects of technology without letting it rule your life. By unplugging and reconnecting with the world and people we love, we can help create a more peaceful and connected reality that isn’t unattainable.
Use technology, don’t let it use you.
References:
https://growtherapy.com/blog/mindful-ways-to-consume-social-media/
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/24/well/live/digital-clutter.html
https://growtherapy.com/blog/mindful-ways-to-consume-social-media/
https://www.mindful.org/6-ways-to-get-the-benefits-of-mindful-walking/
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