Technology is a wonderful thing, but have you ever stopped to think about how much time you spend in front of the computer? A couple of hours? Noon? And have you ever wanted to look at something on your mobile and suddenly realize that you are browsing social networks? In fact, it is estimated that we look at our cell phones 50 different times a day!
Imagine the impact this has on your daily routine and how it contributes to stress, impairs sleep quality, and “robs” you of time. Here are some ways to facilitate digital detoxification, also known as a digital detox.
1.Check your screen time
The operating system of many mobiles, tablets and computers allow you to control the time you spend with these devices. It is also interesting to see which applications consume most of your time and the relationship between them. It makes sense that the ones that are related to work are the ones you use the most and it’s ok, but if you spend the most time with apps related to social media, you may really need a digital detox!
2. Remove the mobile from your routine
What would we do without a mobile? It is the first thing we look at in the morning and the last thing we see at night and this is a problem. We may start to feel anxiety when we spend a few minutes without consulting our mobile phone, which may even affect the quality of sleep.
Turning off the mobile serves to stop being available at any time and anywhere. Avoid looking at your mobile just when you get up: instead, spend some time meditating, reading the newspaper or magazine, leave your mobile in another room out of reach, or leave it charging outside your bedroom at night.
3. Digital Detox challenge
It may be easier for you to start a digital detox if you can persuade someone to do it with you. Whether it is family, friends or co-workers, having a person around who is not “hooked” to the screens makes it easier to socialize, which is an ideal technique to reduce stress.
Having a detox partner will help you keep an eye on yourself to prevent you from checking social media at all times.
4. Set limits and respect them
It’s hard to abstain and cut out the digital world altogether, but you can start by designating a few screen-free hours. For example, during meals or during a walk in the park, just leave your mobile.
5. Enjoy your new freedom
When you realize that you don’t have to be available 24/7, you will be surprised to see how much free time you have gained that you used to spend browsing social media in the morning and at night.
Now you have the opportunity to reward yourself for being less dependent on the digital world, prepare a delicious dinner, enjoy a glass of wine with a good book or relax even more with an anti-stress workout, such as a yoga session. You have earned it!
It is not always easy to leave the virtual world behind, but a digital detox does not mean never using a mobile or a computer again. It is about reducing dependence on electronic devices. The goal is for you to realize that there are things in life much more important than screens, whether it’s playing sports outside or taking a walk with friends to enjoy the fresh air.