In today’s world of technology, we are connected more than ever all thanks to our laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices. We are only available and connected which can adversely affect our physical as well as mental well-being. That’s where the digital detox comes in. Before diving into our topic, let us first learn what digital detox actually is.
What is Digital Detox?
Digital detox is a period of time where you intentionally disconnect from the digital world and try to connect to the real world. It can be a few hours or a few days. This is usually done for reducing stress, improving focus, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
Now that we know what digital detox is, let us discuss how to successfully detox yourself from the digital world.
1. Start Small
If you’re new to digital detoxing, it’s better to start slow. Start with just like half an hour a day or an hour a day and when you are comfortable with it, you can extend your time to a few hours per day. You can feel uncomfortable at first but remember why you started it. The main goal is to remain consistent and you can see the result yourself within a few days.
2. Set boundaries
Let your close ones know that you’ll be disconnecting from the digital world for a short period of time and turn off the notifications on your phone. This will help you avoid any unnecessary distractions and focus on yourself.
3. Find other activities
Now that you’ve disconnected from the digital world, find something to do. It can be anything like reading a book, exercising, or meditating. Just remember you cannot even listen to music, you must give your 100% on what you’re doing. This will help improve your focus and increase productivity in whatever you do.
4. Connect With Others
Use your detoxing as an opportunity to socialize and connect with others. Meet up with friends, go for a walk, make new friends, talk to your family members, or any events. Once your mind is occupied, you’ll find it easy to stay away from your digital devices.
5. Stick With It
It’s absolutely normal to feel uncomfortable and anxious when you first start digital detoxing. As mentioned before, consistency is the key. Keep on sticking to your routine of detoxing and you’ll see all the things you did are worth it.
Here are some proven benefits of Digital Detox:
1. Improved Mental Health
Research shows that too much screen time can cause severe anxiety, depression, and even ADHD. So it’s better to start disconnecting from the digital world and start detoxing. This allows you to take a break from constraint simulation and allows you to focus on other activities that promote relaxation.
2. Increased Productivity
Studies have found that too much screen time reduces productivity and creativity. A break from technology helps increase your focus level which then leads to an increase in productivity and creativity.
3. Better Sleep
The blue light emitted from the screen can disturb your sleeping patterns which can cause irritation, making it harder to fall asleep. It is suggested to keep your electronic devices away for at least an hour when you go to sleep.
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4. More Meaningful Connections
Although social media helps us connect with others, we are sure to lack the emotional attachment we feel in real life. So when you interact with someone in real life, you feel a bond that somehow strengthens the relationship. By disconnecting from the digital world, you can focus on building in-person relationships.
5. Improved Self-awareness
Deattaching yourself from the digital world helps you become more self-aware. This is because you have time to reflect on your thoughts and emotions, without any distractions. This ultimately helps you know yourself better.
In conclusion, a digital detox can have many benefits for your mental and physical health. By taking a break from technology and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you, you can improve your well-being and find more meaning and purpose in your life. So, why not give it a try? Your mind and body will thank you.
