The Importance Of A Digital Detox For Your Mental Health

Hello again, and welcome back to the Vita Nova Blog! Today's topic is discussing the importance of taking time away from your phone and other technology and giving yourself a breather!

What is a Digital Detox?

A digital detox is taking a break from using technology, most commonly smartphones, computers, and social media. This detox is to give your mind and body a chance to rest from the constant intake of information, notifications, and updates.

As you probably know in today's world, we are always connected, whether this is for work or keeping in touch with friends in general. Although being connected and being able to contact others almost instantly is a great thing, it can also be overwhelming. When you take a break from this, you can feel lots of benefits such as a reduce in stress levels, it can refresh your focus, and reconnect with the real world. Think of it as hitting the reset button on your brain!

Signs You Might Need a Digital Detox

It can be hard to recognise that you are in need of a Digital Detox. It is a a good idea to have a checklist that you regularly check in with and if you are feeling any or all of the below, maybe it's time for your Digital Detox.

• Feeling Anxious - If you have a feeling of anxiety or stress when your phone is not nearby, or if it has run out of battery.

• Constantly Checking Notifications - If you feel that you are constantly checking your phone and picking it up, everytime it rings or buzzes.

• Struggling to Focus - If you are struggling to focus on tasks because you are easily distracted by social media. Also, if you feel your attention span is suffering.

• Feeling Overwhelmed - If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of content you consume.

• Sleep Issues - If you stay up late scrolling on your phone, or have trouble winding down or putting your phone down.

The Benefits of a Digital Detox

There are lots of benefits of disconnecting from technology. See some of the most effective below:

• Reduced Stress & Anxiety - Without that constant buzz of notifications, your mind can relax. You will feel less pressure to respond right away, giving you a sense of calm. This will not happen immediately, so be patient with yourself.

• Better Sleep - Staring at screens late at night can mess with your sleep cycle. By disconnecting before bed and switching screens off, you will sleep better. If you are struggling, try replace being on your phone with something like reading.

• Improved Focus - With fewer distractions, it's easier to concentrate on tasks. You might find yourself being more productive and creative.

• Mindful Living - When you are not stuck to your phone, you are more present in the moment. You will notice and appreciate things around you that you might normally overlook.

How to do a Digital Detox

This does not have to be extreme. It is about finding balance and reducing time on technology overall, so take it slow and be patient with yourself! Here are some tips to get started:

• Schedule Tech-Free Time - Try designating certain times of the day when you won't use your phone or computer. This could be during meals or before bed.

• Turn Off Notifications - Turning off your notifications can help relieve you from the constant buzzing and feeling the need to check your messages/alerts.

• Set Boundaries - Let your friends and colleagues know when you are offline. For example, you might decide not to check work emails after 5pm, so once you know people are aware of this, you will not worry as much that you are not responding straight away.

• Replace Screentime with Physical Activities - Replace scrolling with something that benefits your wellbeing such as a walk, workout, or meditation.

• Do a Weekend Detox - If you are feeling strong enough, try a full weekend without Social Media or limit your device use to a couple of hours each day. A tip for this could be to delete the social media apps off your phone for the weekend.

Linking to Self-Care Practices

A digital detox creates space for self-care, so make use of this time! Instead of spending hours on a screen, try incorporating some of these activities into your routine:

• Meditation - This is a great way to relax your mind and disconnect from the digital noise. Start with 3 minutes and build your way up, or start with guided meditations if you are struggling to block out the thoughts.

• Nature Walks - Spending time in Nature has been proven to reduce stress. It is also a great way to ground yourself in the present moment.

• Journaling - Instead of checking social media, spend time journaling about your thoughts and feelings. It is a nice way to reflect on your day.

• Yoga - Stretch, Move and Breathe. Yoga is perfect to calm both the body and mind.

By taking the time to disconnect from the digital world, you are prioritizing your mental health, and making space for more beneficial activities for your wellbeing. It is normal to feel aggitated at the beginning of your digital detox, and you might want to give up at the beginning, but if you wait it out, after some time, you will feel the amazing benefits!

I hope you found this helpful! If you have any questions or thoughts on implementing a Digital Detox into your life, feel free to get in touch!

Also if you are interested in booking a counselling session or want to discuss what I can do to help you on your well-being journey, feel free to get in touch!

Thanks for reading, Ciara X