In our “always-on” culture, it’s easy to feel like a slave to your smartphone. And while technology has certainly made our lives easier, it’s also created a society of what some might call digital addicts.
It’s easy to find yourself hungry for the next ping, crazed if you’ve misplaced your device, and entrapped in a world of too much screen time. After all, there never seems to be a shortage of emails to check, text messages to answer, social media apps to scroll, and Netflix shows to binge, right?
It’s no wonder stress levels are at an all-time high. Between Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMFs) exposure, blue light emission, and constant eye strain, you might find yourself wanting to reset your relationship with technology this holiday season.
Not convinced yet? Keep reading to discover how this guide can help you switch off during the holidays, so you can be fully present with the ones you love and create space for yourself.
Top reasons to take a digital detox.
Are you looking to completely let go of stress this holiday season? If so, a digital detox is a must!
And while relinquishing all your digital devices may seem scary, with no smartphones, no tablets, no Wi-Fi, no TV, and no technological devices whatsoever for the length of your detox, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience.
There are so many benefits to disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with reality. Here are a few of my favorites.
Connect with the world around you. Switching off your devices gives you the chance to reconnect with the physical world.
You’ll be amazed at what a beautiful place it can be when you look up from your phone, take off your headphones, and experience all the sights and sounds the holidays have to offer.
Hello, gorgeous holiday lights! How did I miss you? Do I smell sugar cookies baking? Do I hear the kids laughing in the living room? Can’t wait to play ‘hide-and-seek” with them.
Connect with the people you love. Sure, we use our digital devices to keep in contact with each other — but more often than not those same devices actually distract us from connecting with the people who are physically around us. There is a true gift in putting away your tech and allowing yourself to fully be present with the company that’s around you. It’s surprising how much more engaged you’ll immediately feel.
In short, take this time for yourself and watch space grow for a happier and healthier you. Plus, with more time to do the things you truly enjoy and spend time on the moments that really matter, you’ll be asking yourself, “why didn’t I disconnect sooner?”
Tips for staying tech-free over the holidays.
If you’ve made it this far into the article, then you’re probably keen to digitally detox. Here are my top tips for going tech-free over the holidays.
You’re not reachable. First, decide how many days you’ll be tech-free. I recommend a 3-day minimum detox, but even a day is a good first start. Then, let friends, family, work colleagues (and more) know that you’ll be unreachable during the set period of time that you’ve predetermined. However, it’s also important to have an emergency contact such as a neighbor or loved one who can physically alert you should an emergency arise.
Lock up and switch off your devices. As soon as the date arrives, drop off your digital devices in a designated out-of-sight spot so you won’t be tempted to switch them back on before the detox ends. Better yet, ask your spouse or friends to hide them from you. You can encourage holiday guests to do the same, especially during family dinners.
It pays to be prepared. Be sure to pre-plan all the ways you’ll fill your time before you hit the off button, such as:
Have a standalone camera on hand, so you don’t miss any magical holiday moments.
Grab a new notebook or journal to keep track of all the cool things you do over the holiday break, especially since you’ll be focused on making new memories with your loved ones.
Finally, plan fun board game nights, outdoor activities, family cooking, and more. With all your newly freed-up time, you’ll be amazed at the items you can scratch off your bucket list this holiday season.
Staying present during the holidays is the present.
While most people are initially anxious when you take away their digital devices, after a few days spent in a tech-free environment a sense of peace and calm washes over them. And isn’t that what the holidays are about? Ending a busy year with rest and relaxation, so you can recharge yourself (not your device) before the new year.
Yes, it will take a moment to get over the initial withdrawal, but it’s so worth it! While it’s amazing that digital devices allow us to be connected at all times, sometimes we simply need time to ourselves. It’s good for our mental health, immune system, and overall disposition.
Giving yourself the gift of being unreachable will allow you to properly relax this holiday season and hopefully create time for more self-care. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy, healthy, and digitally-free holiday season.
And if you’re ready to create a less stressed version of yourself in the new year, consider working with one of our professional health coaches. Click the 'Contact' button in the top right corner or simply send us an email to info@joyvial.com to schedule your free discovery session.