Unplug to Recharge

Juice cleanses and fitness regimens aren't the only ways to detox your system. In today's digital age, your mental health deserves a break from its stressors as well. That means you may need a digital detox every now and then so you can enjoy your connected devices instead of being overwhelmed by them. Because May is Mental Health Awareness Month, today we are sharing some digital detox tips for a healthier life - both online and offline.

A digital detox refers to a period when an individual refrains from using tech gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and social media platforms; it is a time to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the real world. As a society, our reliance on digital devices has significantly shaped how we interact, work, and relax. However, this constant engagement comes with a cost - including tech addiction, reduced physical activity, sleep disturbances, and a decrease in face-to-face interactions. A digital detox helps address these issues by encouraging people to step back and evaluate their technology use.

One way to start a digital detox is to turn off push notifications for nonessential apps. Do you need to know each and every "like" or comment on Facebook? Probably not. Set aside a few minutes at the end of each day to check these apps for updates. However, keep push notifications enabled for important things like an email from your boss or a text from your child. 

Some researchers have recommended designating "device-free zones" in your home. Maybe you want to designate the kitchen and dining room as tech-free so you can cook and eat with your family without distractions. Or maybe you notice you spend too much time at night scrolling your phone before bed; you can decide to make your bedroom phone-free to encourage a healthier sleeping environment.

Another way to detox is to limit yourself to using just one device at a time. For example, if you're used to watching TV while scrolling on your tablet, or texting on your phone during Zoom calls, challenge yourself to give your undivided attention to a single connected experience. It might be tough to concentrate at first, but after some practice, you may end up feeling more present and less distracted.

Finally, when you are using your device, make sure it has a purpose. If you are using your phone just because you are bored or looking for that hit of dopamine, try to approach your screen time with purpose and intention. If you cannot figure out how to stop doomscrolling and mindlessly browsing, then your mental health could be a risk.

Taking a regular break from digital devices is essential in today's tech-saturated environment. By embracing certain periods of tech disconnection, you can enjoy a more balanced life and appreciate the world around us with fresh eyes. Whether you start with just one hour a day or a full weekend, the benefits of unplugging are well worth the effort.