6 Tips to Undertake a Digital Detox
by Jess Sepel
While our phones and computers can help our businesses thrive and allow us to connect with friends all over the globe, they can also become problematic when used in excess. It’s estimated that around 40 per cent of the world’s population uses social media for some two hours each day. The overuse of social media and technology creates unnecessary stress in our bodies and can have negative effects for our physical, emotional, and mental health.
I’ve found that overusing my phone makes me anxious and distracted. This is why I set strict rules around my usage of social media and technology. Less screen time actually helps me feel more connected, gives me more energy, and helps me sleep better.
6 TIPS FOR A DIGITAL DETOX
I truly believe that we need to give our bodies time to rest, replenish, and be unplugged. It’s so freeing to take some time to yourself, reset your intentions, and reinvigorate your mind. Here are some of my top tips for undergoing a social media detox:
Set technology boundaries: Try to check emails at set times during the day and then switch off social media and technology by a certain time. Set your limit and stick to it! Mine is 7pm. After that, I focus on my wholesome, nourishing nighttime routine.
Spend more time in nature: Get outside and feel the warm sun on your skin and the fresh air in your lungs. We weren’t designed to be inside, sedentary, working away on our computers all day. Each day, set aside 10 to 30 minutes to be in nature. It might be a brisk walk, a coffee outdoors, or lunch in the sunshine.
Spend time in solitude: Learn to embrace stillness and quiet. It’s so healthy for your mind and body.
Schedule one technology-free day each week: Pick a day off to treat as a mini-detox retreat. Leave your phone at home and try something new. Explore your local farmers market, go for a hike, attend a cooking class, or have a picnic with loved ones.
Commit to getting more rest: When you’re limiting screen time, it’s important to get some quality shut-eye. This allows our bodies to heal and regenerate new cells, which is so important when you’re detoxing.
Schedule a holiday detox: Last year, I decided to unplug from social media and emails for 10 whole days. It was one of the best things I did and helped me feel refreshed for the New Year ahead.
Jessica Sepel is a clinical nutritionist, best-selling author, international health blogger, and the beloved voice behind JSHealth and @jshealth. She’s passionate about helping people overcome fad dieting and disordered eating, having gone through her own struggles with food. Her philosophy is focused around balance, rest, and building a healthy relationship with food. She recently launched the JSHealth App, which features a world-first nutrition clinic, hundreds of healthy recipes, a daily meal planner, health guides, body love support and much more.