If you're feeling sluggish and weighed down, it may be time to go on a diet. But we're not talking about cutting back on carbs and stocking up on protein bars: We're craving a digital detox. Step up to the challenge of temporarily shedding some of your digital devices for a healthier and happier you with the following quick tips. It won't hurt, we promise.
Set Limits
You wake up, and reach for your phone. You fall asleep with your iPad in your lap. Sounds familiar? It's time to set some limits. Whether it be not checking your email before your morning coffee at 9am, or no technology after 8pm, setting strict guidelines and sticking to them will help you tune out on a regular basis.
Make Friends/Family A Priority
Doesn't everyone dread the person at dinner who is always on their phone? Make sure it isn't you. Don't just make it a goal to stay of your phone when you're with your loved ones, make it a mandate. Turn it off for every sit-down meal, get together, and coffee, even if you think they'll "understand."
Write A Letter
If you've forgotten what a letter is, you're probably not alone. It's kind of like an email, but not quite. Make someone's day by taking some time out of yours to pen them a heartfelt note by hand, no matter how short, instead of shooting them a five second email and pressing send.
Leave It Be
Going to the gym ? Leave your phone in your car. Same goes for the grocery store. The goal here is not to have separation anxiety. We understand checking Twitter and texting your bestie makes breaks between reps and errands more bearable but give it a try. It's not as scary as you think.
Set A No-Connection Time Every Day
Set a hour aside every day for something to do that's completely non-digital. Whether it be reading, cleaning, or going for a walk, make sure your phone is turned off or on silent, your computer is out of reach, and you are out of a digital state of mind. If you think an hour sounds just cray-cray to you, begin slow: Start with thirty minutes and work your way up. Before you know it, you'll be craving your hour of tech-free time every day.
Work For It
Plug your phone in another room at bedtime. This way, not only will it not be the last thing you reach for at bedtime, it won't be the first thing you grab when you wake up. Problem solved.
Do A Digital-Free Day
Here's a real challenge: Spend an entire day without technology in hand. Turn off your phone, store away your iPad, and warn the appropriate parties you'll be out of touch. Make a to-do list of things without tech, or better yet, do all your favorite things sans your usual i-everything. Bonus points if you can go longer than one day.
Reward Yourself
You're starting to digitally detox, but like any good diet, you're spying an array of appliances and can feel yourself cracking. Before handheld devices start to look as appealing as a chocolate souffle, reward yourself for weaning away from your technology dependency with a non-digital activity. Our suggestions include a massage, trapeze lessons, or a manicure: Anything where you can't go grappling for your phone!
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