We all use our phones way too much than we would like to admit. And as much as we try to minimize its use, there’s no denying that we invariably end up reaching for it—to make a call, text someone, or simply scroll through social media or watch some funny videos on YouTube. One of our readers confessed that she constantly turns on her phone to check the time since she doesn’t wear a watch and that inevitably has her checking her messages or social media accounts even when she doesn’t really need to.
A digital detox is a time when you intentionally reduce the use of your devices to promote well-being and take care of your mental health. It’s believed to improve focus and sleep and reduce stress. It’s a well known fact that disconnecting from screens before bed can improve your sleep quality and that staying away from social media can help you forge better real-life connections. But as well meaning as our intentions might be, the allure of a smartphone or tablet is more often than not all too great.
There are, however, small steps you can take to spend some time tech-free and become more in control of your life. The first and foremost thing you can do to stop letting tech control your life is set a clear goal on how much screen-time you are allowed. You can set a time for device use, schedule tech-free time, or declare the bedroom as a no-phone or tablet area.
Next up, consider deleting social media apps from your phone. One of the people ApEx spoke to says his screen time went down significantly once he uninstalled Facebook and Instagram from his android phone. This, he says, was because he became less inclined to open the sites through browsers as that was a long process. Social media wasn’t just a tap away and that inaccessibility acted as a deterrent.
Another thing that can help you disconnect from digital devices is to find hobbies that you can engage in. Whether it’s gardening, reading, or crocheting, hobbies can help reduce the time you spend scrolling on your phone. After all, we are more likely to curl up on the couch with our phones when we are bored and find ourselves with nothing better to do. Engaging in mindful activities that bring you joy can change how and when you use tech.
And finally, consider switching off your phone and tablets during specific times of the day or for a day every week to start with. If that sounds like a bit much, then at least put your devices on silent mode. You will definitely use them less when you aren’t constantly distracted by message pings and notifications.
A study has found that heavy technology use on a daily basis is associated with an increased risk of mental health problems among young adults. It was also linked to increased symptoms of ADHD and decreased well-being. A digital detox, thus, can be a good way to help you focus on your mental and physical well-being and not let technology rule your life.
