Bring You Back to the Now

Digital Detoxing

Bring You Back to the Now

    I mentioned a few post back, I did a digital detox. I stepped away from social media for a few months. In that time I found myself with more time, less anxiety, more power over my own emotions and reactions, among other benefits.
    Between January and April this year I took a break from social media. I deleted my Facebook, messenger and Instagram. I didn't open Tiktok. I only used Pinterest and Youtube for knowledge and inspiration. 

     It was hard at first as does breaking any habit. I like so many people look at the influencers on their screen as friends in life. Quitting social media felt like I had moved away from people I'd seen everyday and it felt like I wouldn't see them ever again. It was sad and heavy. I lost the biggest source of contact and communication with my own family and friends. I felt so isolated and disconnected. Which was exactly what I needed.

    What I needed to find myself. Find who I am, figure out how I really feel about things in life, my own thoughts and opinions. To realize I was accepting other peoples ideas and beliefs as my own and I couldn't see it until I took a step back.

    Stepping back from social media also opened up my day. No more doom scrolling or being attached to my phone 24/7. I was a slave to watching my favorite creators, responding to comments, making and posting videos, etc. Not anymore. My daily anxiety lessened so much. I have so much less daily guilt and self shaming. I found myself having time to do the things I always gave myself crap for not making time for, like writing my book or drawing and painting. I have been reading more. I do have a full and complex life but it feels easy and calmer. I have managed to find myself again, and do things I'd want to do. 

What is digital detoxing? 

    It is intentionally taking a break from television, computers, smartphones and social media to reduce stress and anxiety, restore presence of mind, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you. It’s about creating healthy boundaries so tech serves you instead of draining your time, energy, and focus.

Why should you do a digital detox?

    Spending too much time plugged in either through the television, computer, tablet or cell phone can have severely negative affects on your physical and mental health.

Signs You Might Need a Digital Detox

• You feel anxious when you’re away from your phone.

• You lose track of time while scrolling.

• Your screen time is crowding out hobbies, sleep, or relationships.

• You feel more distracted and less present.

Benefits of doing a digital detox

Reduced Stress and Anxiety:
    Spending excessive time on social media and constant connectivity can contribute to stress and anxiety. A digital detox can help lower stress levels by reducing the constant stream of notifications, comparisons, and negativity often found online.

Improved Sleep:
    Blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. A digital detox, particularly limiting screen time before bed, can improve sleep quality and duration.

Enhanced Focus and Productivity:
    By reducing distractions from notifications and social media, a digital detox can help improve focus and concentration, leading to increased productivity in work and other tasks.

Stronger Relationships:
    Disconnecting from devices can encourage more meaningful interactions with loved ones and improve communication skills, fostering stronger relationships. 

More Time for Hobbies and Interests:
    A digital detox can free up time that was previously spent on screens, allowing individuals to engage in hobbies, spend time in nature, exercise, or pursue other activities they enjoy.

Increased Self-Awareness:
    By disconnecting from the constant stream of information and social comparison, individuals can become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and needs, promoting self-reflection and personal growth.

Better Mental Clarity:
    A digital detox can lead to a sense of mental clarity and reduced mental clutter, allowing for more present-moment awareness and appreciation of experiences. 

Start  with a Gentle Digital Detox

• Set “no-phone zones” (bedroom, dinner table).

• Schedule “tech-free hours” each day.

• Replace screen time with mindful alternatives (reading, journaling, nature walks).

• Turn off non-essential notifications.

• Try a Social Media Day off

I encourage anyone and everyone to try even just a 24 hour detox. Notice what changes in your life, in your mind and how you feel.

“The digital world sells you infinite freedom, but true freedom lies in knowing when to log off, walk outside, and plant something real.”

― Lawrence Nault

Closing: Wrap up with a gentle takeaway and encouragement.

Try this for yourself. Disconnect from the narrative of other people, their thought, their beliefs, and their drama. Life is meant to be lived. Not idly scrolled through. Disconnect. 

Get your Free Digital Detox Checklist download here!