“Digital Detox” is my subject of discussion and let me tell you when I came across this term for the first time, I was befuddled because isn’t detox always related to food or diet. So, I set about to discover its factual meaning. As I delved deeper into its purpose, benefits and efficacy in today’s world scenario – I knew this is a sure shot way to “Creating a sustainable world”!
Now, what is Digital Detox?
To answer that question first let’s question ourself - Do you often find ourselves glued to our smartphone screen and scrolling endlessly as chunks of time slip away? You’re not alone. Research shows that about 61% of people admit they’re addicted to the internet and their digital screens.
That’s where “Digital Detox” comes in -
Digital Detox is a period of time during which a person voluntarily refrains from using electronic devices such as smartphones or computers, regarded as an opportunity to reduce screen-time and focus on other activities like reading, yoga, exercise, meditation, gardening etc. This form of detoxing has gained popularity, as individuals have succeeded in focusing on other things which don’t involve digital devices, spending time on social media platforms and the internet.
That’s why taking a break from your numerous social media apps and some time away from screens could be a great help for your mental and physical health.
In fact, before I was aware of this term “Digital Detox” – I had self-imposed as well as mom-imposed detox periods from devices. My thoughts about digital detox is that I treasure it as a golden chance to avoid using digital devices and indulge in my preferable activities like reading and writing. The current virtual schooling scenario actually doesn’t leave us any choice but to use a digital device. Therefore, from time to time it’s essential that we practice “Digital detoxing” and the sole purpose of this will have more clarity once I outline the side-effects of excessive Digital usage in our lives:
- Low self-esteem
- Sleep problems
- Depression
- Lack of exercise
- Weight Gain
- Lack of time management
I’m sure we all agree that Disconnecting from the online world can help us all reduce stress and enjoy more real-life connections or experiences. This can benefit our mental health as well as give a much-needed break to our precious eyes which truly faces the harmful brunt of non-stop screen-time.
Unplugging yourself from your devices or making the effort to use them less can help improve your quality of life by helping you:
- Calm down and feel content
- Be more productive
- Feel better about yourself
- Get healthier
- Sleep better
Now the question arises “How does one get started on a Digital detox process” – It’s really simple actually “Do what works best for you”.
Like for me personally not charging the batteries of my devices whenever I want to catch a break digitally works brilliantly, maybe you can try the same or else try these steps instead:
First things first start disconnecting at night before bedtime
Second, turn off notifications - If you find yourself responding to every text alert, email, or ping from your social media apps, it may be a good idea to shut off the notifications in your phone as well as laptop settings. This can help curb the urge to respond to every single noise it makes. You can also try the do not disturb function.
These small steps will certainly lead you to taking scheduled breaks from your digital device over time and positively curb the compulsive behaviour we’ve all developed towards our digital buddies.
To conclude, I would like to state that relinquishing all your digital devices may seem like a scary concept, no smartphones, no Wi-Fi, no TV, no technological devices whatsoever for the duration of your detox, yet I assure you that it will be an incredibly rewarding experience. There are so many benefits to disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with reality.
