DIGITAL DETOXING: A GUIDE TO STEPPING AWAY
In a world that moves fast, it’s okay to slow down. We’re constantly surrounded by pings, pop-ups, and the pressure to stay connected. Stepping away from our screens, whether for a few minutes or a few days, can work wonders for our mental clarity, focus, and emotional wellbeing.
If your body feels wired, your mind scattered, or your spirit drained, you’re not alone. These are signals – not shortcomings – that it might be time to pause, breathe, and reset. Summer is the perfect time to try a gentle digital detox and rediscover the calming power of the outdoors.
Why Try a Digital Detox?
A digital detox does not have to be an all or nothing. It’s simply a mindful break from the constant buzz of technology (literally!). Even brief moments of disconnection can:
-
Restore your attention span and help you feel more present.
-
Reduce stress and information fatigue.
-
Improve sleep by creating healthier boundaries with your devices.
-
Strengthen relationships by encouraging more face-to-face interaction—even if it’s just with yourself in nature.
Micro-Moments That Make a Difference
You don’t need a weeklong retreat to feel refreshed. Try building in small, screen-free moments during your day with one of these ideas:
-
The Morning Pause: Before reaching for your phone, take three deep breaths, stretch, or sip your coffee by a window.
-
The “Analog” Lunch Break: Eat away from your screen. Bring a book or just enjoy your surroundings!
-
The Evening Unplug: Set a time to power down for the night – light a candle, take a walk, or write in a journal instead of scrolling.
-
The Nature Reset: Take a five-minute walk outside—even a few minutes of sunlight and greenery can reset your nervous system.
-
These micro-moments can anchor your day and give your mind the breathing room it needs.
Reconnect Through Nature
Nature has a powerful way of inviting us back to ourselves. Whether it’s a shaded walking path, a local park bench, or your own backyard, the outdoors offers space to slow down and simply be. Try really immersing yourself in your natural surroundings by:
-
Walking without your phone (you can do it!) – let your senses lead.
-
Notice one new thing in your surroundings each time you go outside.
-
Make it a ritual. A 10-minute sunset walk, or morning garden coffee can become a peaceful pause to look forward to.
From Disconnection to Intention
This isn’t about creating guilt or cutting ties with the digital world. It’s about creating more intentional relationships—with your time, your technology, and your wellbeing. Start small, start kind, and start wherever you are. Check out some strategies for helping the whole family spend less time on screen this summer here.
Let the season be an invitation: to log off more often, to look up more freely, and to live just a little slower.
Need support? We’re here. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, we can help. Whether it’s stress, overwhelm, or finding new rhythms, talking to someone can make a big difference. Let us help you rediscover the joy of doing less—one mindful pause at a time.