By: Muqadas Jabeen

We wake up in the morning, and the first thing we do is check our mobile phones. We scroll through our social media all day long. Why? Just to stay updated on trends. Being connected to the digital world is a great pleasure, but you have no idea that you are harming your health. Too much screen time destroys physical and mental health. That is why it is recommended to celebrate a day in our lives called “Unplugging Day,” in which we disconnect ourselves from digital services. It revitalizes us from the inside and outside. In this fast-paced world, it is quite difficult for us to keep ourselves away from technology even for a day, so it is suggested to take technology breaks from time to time to relax. Taking a break from technology helps you refocus and recharge mentally and physically.

Digital detoxing is a formal expression used for taking a technology break. It is a self-proclaimed time you spend disconnecting yourself from all kinds of gadgets, including mobile phones, laptops, or tablets. You will reap many benefits from unplugging, such as relief from stress, better mood, and improved interpersonal connections.

1) Mental Well-being:

One of the most important changes you will notice is that you feel freer or less burdened. Taking a day off from technology will reduce your stress. Constantly receiving notifications and updates on social media can be overwhelming. Excessive screen time is often associated with increased levels of stress and anxiety. By unplugging for a day, you give yourself a chance to reset and renew your mind and soul.

2) Better Sleep:

Research has shown that using your smartphone late at night before bed has devastating effects on your health. Most digital devices emit blue light, which can interfere with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle because it blocks the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. You may experience fragmented sleep, waking up more frequently during the night.

3) Better Focus & Better Relationships:

The urge to keep track of notifications and emails reduces productivity and focus. When you put all the devices aside while you work, you will allow yourself to focus more effectively. You will find a calm environment for your work and also for your interpersonal relationships. It is no longer a secret that excessive use of mobile phones can destroy your relationships. On an unplugged day, you get the opportunity to spend quality time with your family and friends, such as sharing a meal or playing a game.

4) Connection to the present moment:

Being overly involved in the digital world can damage your true self. A digital detox helps you to be yourself without the pings of notifications. You can enjoy your own company in a calm and relaxed environment. When you constantly use social media, you feel stressed because social media makes you feel that everyone else is doing well except you. When you free yourself from the rush of the digital world, you feel realistic. You enjoy being yourself.

How do I do a digital detox?

There are some easy ways to do a digital detox without having to unplug for the entire day.

• Schedule some screen-free time into your daily routine where you can be with your family.
• Turn off notifications for your emails and social media while you’re on a digital detox.
• Put your phone away when you’re working or studying.
• Plan some screen-free activities like reading a book or exercising.
• Turn off your phone at least an hour before bed.

Take some time to reevaluate the role of screens and technology in your life. Try a digital detox to rejuvenate yourself.