On Sunday 26th June 2016 the UK are celebrating National Unplugging Day, which was launched last year in response to our growing inability to put down our electronic devices and switch off! The campaign is running under the hashtag #GoGadgetFree, and challenging people to spend an entire day away from technology. The question is, could you do it?
Digital Detox holidays are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s unsurprising. While at home we often find it necessary to be constantly connected in order to work, check emails and organise family life, a holiday gives us a better opportunity to take a break from all these commitments. Some companies have gone so far as to offer specific digital detox holidays, but anybody on any trip can take the opportunity to have a break from their screens. Let's find out how!
Quite simply, a digital detox is a phrase used to describe a set period of time when a person decides to take a prolonged break from their electronic devices. Whether it be your smartphone, tablet or laptop, the aim is to cut out all the ’digital noise’ that comes from our constant access to social media, email and messaging services, and re-focus our attention on real life experience and interactions.
Leave devices at home: You’ll probably need your phone in case of emergencies, but your laptop and tablet can stay behind. Remove temptation by leaving all non-essential devices at home!
Delete your apps: Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp – get rid of them! Yes you’ll still be able to access them on your browser, but the extra effort of going to the website and logging in will make you question whether you actually need to.
Distract yourself: Make sure you have something to fill your time with so you’re less likely to get bored and reach for your phone. Plan activities and day trips, or if you’re just lying on the beach have a book or magazine to hand. You can even leave your phone at the hotel – nobody likes sand in their phone anyway…
Install a blocker app: There are a choice of apps that block social notifications, stop you from accessing particular apps, count the minutes you spend on social media, or a combination of the above. Try something like OffTime or Flipd (free) or gamify your detox with Forest (£1.49).
Have you done a digital detox, or thought about challenging yourself to one? Let us know in the comments!
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