Digital detox!! I bet you've heard the term, but is there any merit to it? Is it just another trendy thing to say, or is there real value there? Let's dig into what exactly a digital detox is and how you can benefit from one. A digital detox is when someone takes a break from all digital devices and social media. Take a look at the chart below to see if you might need a digital detox!
The downsides of too much phone usage and social media scrolling include: poor memory and concentration, negative impact on relationships, loss of sense of community, and anxiety. These are just a few of the side effects and it's easy to see how overuse of digital devices and social media would have these consequences. So, how do we solve it? How can we still enjoy the nice parts of today's digital age, and mitigate some of these downsides?
Digital detox!! There are several ways to do this and make sure it works best for you. The most comprehensive way to figure out how digital detoxes can most improve your life is to experiment with what makes you feel best. Here are some options:
Digital Detox Immersion
Periodic Digital Detox
Social Media Detox
Destination Digital Detox
A Content Fast
Digital Detox Immersion
The immersion is when you go all in and cut out all screens for a designated period of time. The longer amount of time you go for, the more effective it is and the more you will truly see the dependence. Even a few days is beneficial, but longer will really help you reset.
Periodic Digital Detox
This is setting aside designated time in our day or week to go without screens and incorporating a digital detox into your weekly routine. This allows your body to adjust from the stimulation of screens, texting, and social media; keep you grounded, and reconnect with your own thoughts.
Social Media Detox
Eliminating social media in small increments is a great way to begin understanding how it affects your moods and wellbeing. The longer the time period, the better the results. You can start with a day and go from there! One step to consume less social media is to move the apps on your phone around so you can't open them up without thinking about it. There's also usage restricting apps you can download to help you limit your social media time.
Destination Detox
This enforces a detox by destination. If you travel to a place where there's no cell coverage, say a backpacking trip in Indian Peaks Wilderness here in Colorado, it can help you reconnect with your surroundings and disconnect from your phone.
Content Fast
In addition to digital media and screens, a content fast eliminate all forms of entertainment. Radio, newspaper, you name it. Once you look for it, you'll be surprised at how much content you're always consuming.
Digital detoxes have also been shown to increase efficiency, happiness, satisfaction, and overall well-being. Try implementing one of these methods into your life and let us know how it goes! If you'd like a destination detox outside, contact us and we'd be thrilled to help you get outside and off the phone.
Written by Julie Lane. Adventurer, Educator and Guide for Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides.
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