Spending too much time scrolling through your phone and in need of a digital detox holiday? Here are our top tips to get you through…
We live in a time when we are constantly required to be switched on. After all, if we don’t post something to instagram, did it really happen? In a time when we spend most of our waking lives looking at enviable photos and posts of others, it’s no surprise there are more mental health issues than ever. We feel a constant need to compare, to show-off what we are doing and stare at screens all the time. Because of this, we can forget what it’s like to just switch-off. To enjoy what you are doing because of what it is, rather than what it will look like. To enjoy a concert or show through our own eyes, rather than an instagram story, dinner because it tastes great, not because it looks delicious in a photo. This is why it’s important to take time for a digital detox. Switching off has a number of benefits, from better engagement with loved ones, to boosting your mental wellbeing. Due to this, it’s no surprise that digital detox holidays have become a strong trend. But you don’t have to do a special digital detox retreat for an offline trip. There are a few simple steps you can take to enjoy a digital detox retreat on your own terms. Here is how to plan a digital detox holiday…
Go where there’s no wifi
Dig out your old camera
This can either be an old digital camera or even a disposable one (this is even more fun as you can’t plan your shots!) We have become so reliant on using our phones as cameras that it’s easy to sneakily check into Facebook or peek at your emails while taking a snap. By using a camera you don’t even need to reach for your phone, taking the temptation away.
Do it as a group
Switch off from work
Set yourself specific times
If you’re not quite ready to go T-total during your digital detox holiday, set specific times where you are allowed your phone and don’t go over that. Say you can go on it for half an hour in the morning and half an hour in the evening, set yourself a timer and when the time is up, put your phone down and don’t look at it again until the next time slot. This will avoid the unnecessary feed-scrolling so many of us are accustomed to and ensure you use your time wisely. You can then spend the rest of the day enjoying and taking in your surroundings.
What is your favourite of our top tips to take a digital detox holiday? Let us know!