How To Do Digital Detox

How To Do Digital Detox

If you are someone who is accustomed to frequently checking your WhatsApp
and social networks and even answering emails from work outside working
hours, then you are definitely someone who might benefit from taking a
technical “time out”, what is referred to as a digital detox.
A digital detox refers to a period of time in which you refrain from using
electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and computers. It is an
opportunity to reduce stress and focus more on social interaction and the
connection with nature in the physical world.

We live in a 24/7 world where there is little respite from the “always on”
approach to a digital detox can give you some freedom to regain balance in
your life. A little time a day or unplugging after a certain time has many real

world benefits.

The idea is "disconnect to reconnect". Here are 10 tips for you to start your
digital detox:

1. Set some time for a digital detox: this will depend on the frequency
with which you use your mobile phone, tablet or other connected
devices, although it is recommended to last initially between three days
and a week.

2. Establish schedules: in many cases, for work or personal reasons, you
cannot be without a phone or connected to the internet, so it is best to
establish schedules in which you are allowed to look at emails and social
networks. You can also choose to use your phone for a day within the
week when you can disconnect completely.

3. Keep calm: it is normal for the first few days to be tempted to look at
your phone and this will generate some anxiety. But over time, you will
realize that worrying is not essential. It is best to take it easy.

4. Find partners: one way to get the best results and motivate yourself is to
share the challenge with a friend, partner or family member Remember
to inform your contacts that you will make this disconnection. This way,
they can know when they can contact you and avoid any worries of them
not being able to get in touch with you. There are even digital detoxes
that run throughout the year that you can take part in and share your
experiences with others.

5. Create rules: set rules, such as turning off your phone when you get
home. If you meet it, you get a reward. If not, a small punishment. This
will motivate you to do it right.

6. Do things you like: go back to your hobbies and practice them, the only
condition is that they have nothing to do with technology. Go for a walk,

do some sport, do yoga, read, cook, or paint, and if you think you don't
have any hobbies, stop to reflect for a moment.
7. Avoid your phone during meals: move the phone away while eating,
whether alone or accompanied. Take pleasure in food and the company
you share it with.
8. Clean up your applications: think about the use of each application and
then assess if it’s necessary. Uninstalling applications can help you more
than you think. This will get rid of unimportant notifications that distract
you.
9. Don’t have your phone nearby: one way to avoid being tempted is to not
have it nearby. Therefore, avoid having your phone close at work, during
your digital detox and while you sleep, because the luminescence of the
screen and notifications can interrupt your sleep. Or choose a dumb
phone that keeps the phone to be used for calling only or minimise its
functionality.
10.Outside notifications: with the deactivation of notifications with light,
vibrations, or pop-up windows of all applications, you will use your phone
less. Turn them off, save your battery and your sanity at times when they
are really not essential.