A digital detox is a period where one takes time away from screens and mindless scrolling, to actually focus on what makes life worth living. We are talking about taking care of yourself and loved ones for the future.
These days, technological advancements make the shift away from our devices seem too hard, if not impossible. But it is important to keep in mind that if you are finding it hard to keep up with your daily routines or tasks without checking your phone, then you need to rethink your relationship with technology.
Constant notifications, emails, and messages often leave us stressed, overwhelmed, and anxious, which sometimes disconnects us from the real world. We call that digital overload, and it calls for a digital detox.
How urgent is it to unplug from the digital world?
Many of us find ourselves trapped in a cycle of wanting to be constantly updated or connected, which is taking a toll on our mental and physical health without notice. You might be wondering if you need a digital detox, and the Twelve Marketing inc. team says you do if you are experiencing these signs:
- Feeling anxious or depressed when you’re not connected to your device.
- Experiencing sleep disturbances after spending too much time on screens.
- Finding it hard to focus without checking your phone every few minutes.
Here are some negative impacts of excessive screen time on mental health.
- Mental fatigue is when your brain feels overworked and unable to function at its best, this leads to decreased productivity, creativity, and the overall cognitive function.
- Social media seems to be a major culprit in stealing happiness. Some people are feeling the pressure of staying updated and relevant because of FOMO (the fear of missing out). Also, we compare and criticise ourselves to others who seem to have made it in life, this leads to stress and low self-esteem.
- The blue light that we receive from our screens disrupts the body’s natural heart rhythm, which makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Social media is of course made for virtual connections, but the misuse can lead to feelings of loneliness and social isolation. This is because although you are able to catch up with others from a million miles away, it lacks the depth and emotional connection of face-to-face communication.
So why is a digital detox considered a form of self-care?
Here is a list of benefits you are missing out on if you are not digitally detoxing. So, soak them in for practice. It may not be an immediate release from technology, but in time, you will thank yourself.
- The first thing you will experience is a clear mind. Without the constant notifications and alerts, your mind can go to new and deeper levels of concentration where you can be more productive and present in your daily tasks.
- Improved sleep is something you can look forward to. Disconnecting from technology in the mornings when waking up and evenings a few hours before bed, will reset your natural body’s sleep-wake cycle. As a result, you will experience restful sleep and productive days.
- Stepping away from screens allows you to build and maintain deep and meaningful relationships with your family, friends, and colleagues. You are able to strengthen emotional connections and improve the quality of your relationships, which brings happiness and fulfilment.
- Last but not least, you get to make time for yourself and appreciate the world around you. You know, it is the smallest things that bring inner peace, so step back and savour the present moment. Be content, because life is worth living.
How do I start the detox you ask?
Healing yourself from technology is not easy. Also, we are not saying eliminate technology completely because it is now part of our lives and we get to make a living out of it.
This process doesn’t have to be overwhelming, you can simply start by setting boundaries with your technology use. For example:
- You can have specific times where you use technology, such as office hours, checking emails, news, or connecting with your loved ones.
- Create gadget-free zones in your home, this can be bedrooms and dining tables/rooms where you spend time with your family members.
- Schedule a regular screen-free time as an individual, where you can take a walk, read a book, take a nap, or spend time with your loved ones. A minimum of 30 minutes can recharge your body and mind.
- As time goes, you can incorporate a technology-free day and use it to develop new hobbies such as gardening, exercising, or cooking. These are activities that do not need internet access and make a new way to unwind instead of mindless scrolling.
In closing, this world is bombarded by digital noise, and taking time off can bring in a new perspective. Yes, it is easier said than done, but it is the impact we are aiming for. Smaller steps lead to a bigger purpose. So, you got this.
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