“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott.
What is Digital Detox?
A digital detox is when we take a break from using our smartphones, social media, or other digital devices for a period of time, allowing us to reconnect with the real world instead.
Why I Tried a Digital Detox:
As I’ve mentioned in this Post, I decided to do a digital detox this weekend as a self care ritual and also because my mind felt foggy all the time, my attention span had decreased from watching 10-second reels for hours on end, and soon, I couldn’t focus on anything for more than 10 seconds. I even struggled to read posts longer than 20 words. Life felt chaotic with all the pings and red notifications constantly demanding my attention. Did you know Facebook’s notification color was originally blue to match its interface, but it didn’t drive enough engagement? They changed it to red—a color that grabs attention more easily—which led to an increased number of clicks. Who wouldn’t click a bright red button? I know I would.
With all these apps demanding my attention, I realized I needed to step away and start using them on my terms, instead of letting them control me.
What I Actually Did During My Detox:
- Spent More Time with Actual Humans:
The purpose of social media is to connect us with others, but when we look at our lives, we rarely use it for that anymore. It’s just something we scroll through when we’re bored, waiting for someone, or trying to escape reality. During my detox, I felt more connected with the people around me, developed more empathy, and communicated without distractions. It felt so refreshing!
- Observed My Surroundings on Walks:
I tend to listen to podcasts or audiobooks when I walk, but during my detox, I simply walked in silence. It felt like I was in a Ghibli movie—stopping to admire the sky, clouds, and nature.
- Discovered Podcasts and Blogs in Niches I Love:
Time is better spent when I listen to or read about things that genuinely interest me. I love topics like slow living, morning and night routines, self-care, and self-improvement. I googled and bookmarked blogs to explore later. I plan to spend time reading these instead of endlessly browsing social media.
- Mindful Eating:
I became more aware of the taste and texture of the food I ate. We often eat quickly, rushing to get somewhere or do something else, but during my detox, I took my time, free from distractions, and thoroughly enjoyed each meal.
- Slow Showers:
I love long showers, especially during my days off. They’re therapeutic for me—a chance to relax, wash my hair, and indulge in skincare. I live for those moments of peace.
- Focused on My Breathing:
I have a little mindfulness app on my watch that reminds me to breathe, which I usually ignore. But during my detox, I followed its prompts to pause and breathe whenever it reminded me. These small mindfulness breaks became something I really enjoyed.
- Read More Books:
I have a huge bookshelf filled with unread books—more than the ones I’ve read. With no social media to distract me, I had a lot of free time and chose to read more, winding down my day with a good book.
- Drove Slowly:
Frantic driving and getting frustrated with reckless drivers is my thing—my mind races, and everything feels chaotic. How I drive depends on the music I listen to. If it’s something upbeat, I feel frantic; if it’s slow, I drive calmly. During my detox, I listened to the podcasts I’d chosen and found myself driving slowly and calmly, without getting frustrated, even when people cut me off.
- Created Content for My Blog:
With no distractions, I had time to sit quietly and let my thoughts flow. I came up with a few ideas for my blog and wrote them down in my notes app.
- Reduced Screen Time to Less Than an Hour:
By restricting my social media use and only using apps for practical purposes, I reduced my screen time to just 40 minutes a day, and I couldn’t be prouder of myself.
Taking a break from the digital world allowed me to reset and reconnect with the things that truly matter. I regained clarity, focus, and a sense of calm that I hadn’t realized was missing. While digital tools are a part of our everyday lives, it’s important to use them intentionally rather than letting them control us. I encourage everyone to try a digital detox, even if it’s just for a day. You might be surprised at how much it enriches your life.
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