A digital detox is a period in which you reduce the time you spend using phones and other technologies, to reduce stress levels, improve sleep patterns, boost energy levels and overall improve mental wellbeing. Detoxifying can help to relieve tension while improving sleep quality and increasing overall energy levels – plus it can even boost mental wellbeing!
Digital detoxing can help you retake control of your life and reset priorities. Social media updates, emails and text messages can quickly become overwhelming distractions that threaten to steal away focus, disrupt sleep quality and potentially cause depression. Digital detoxing offers the chance to regain control and realign priorities in life.
Unplugging from technology is important to enjoying the outdoors and other non-screen activities. Our brain was meant to engage with real world, not screens. Unfortunately, many have difficulty turning off and putting down their devices if they use social media constantly or use one for work purposes – this constant use can have negative impacts on mental health; an indicator that it may be time to unplug.
Studies have revealed that heavy smartphone usage can actually create changes similar to those induced by cocaine addiction and use. Each swipe and scroll sends dopamine signals directly into your brain, creating addictive and destructive patterns of behavior that may need retraining – however taking breaks from digital devices may help relieve anxiety, insomnia and depression while simultaneously encouraging self-care practices such as meditation or exercise.
When embarking on a digital detox, it’s essential that you set goals and stick with them. Engaging others is also helpful for keeping yourself accountable; for example if your social media or email friends only communicate via these platforms, inform them ahead of time of your intentions to unplug during certain times and invite them along on your detox. You could even try setting an old-fashioned alarm clock instead of your smartphone to wake up each day with less of an urge to check their phones immediately upon awakening!
After your digital detox is complete, it is crucial that you evaluate its results and make any necessary changes. Writing down any challenges or barriers encountered helps better understand habits and make adjustments necessary for long-term success. For example, setting a goal of not using your phone during family dinners or not watching television while reading or cooking could help achieve long-term success.
An annual digital detox may seem counter-intuitive, but it can actually be extremely helpful. Not only can it boost mental health but it can also improve productivity, focus and overall happiness. If you find it hard to unplug from technology it would be wise to consult a therapist or physician for additional support and guidance.
