5 Reasons to Take a Digital Detox
Real Talk. For the past few weeks, I've been feeling like a Debbie Downer. It's a funk I just can't seem to get out of. Part of me knows some of it is being caused by general stress and life situations I can't always control. You know, those crazy life situations that wreak havoc on my anxiety. On the other hand, part of me knows that some of the feelings have been caused by my digital consumption. There is always something going on that is upsetting, plays into anxious feelings, or just becomes completely overwhelming. I feel like I've studied social media so much throughout my time in school that I should know better. There is something to be said about the effects digital consumption has on us especially when it comes to social media. It always seems like everyone has life figured out but I just don't. There are people having babies, getting married, and even doing things I wish I was doing. Not to mention have things I wish I had. It's really easy to fall into this comparable trap. Of course, people typically only put the good parts of their life online for everyone to see. This is why I think it's time for a digital detox.
"But Nicole, you work in a purely digital job, how can you possibly take a detox?" you might be saying. While you are right, I can't take a full digital detox, but I can take steps to lessen my consumption or use. A digital detox is anything you want it to be. The Oxford Dictionary even defines a digital detox as spending any extended time away from devices. It doesn't have to be all at once, but can be small increments or with selected things. For example not going on social media as much or checking your phone during meals. Anything that gives you peace of mind, reduces stress, and simply lets you "be."
Digital devices keep all of us in a constant state of "what now." Something that takes a toll on relationships and hinders our ability to have meaningful connections. There are many reasons to take a digital detox and below are 5 reasons it's time to take a digital detox.
reasons for a digital detox
Better Sleep
Devices impair our ability to sleep. Phones emit a blue light that affects the production of melatonin. It continues to keep the brain alert at times when we'd rather be sleeping. Even just reducing phone usage before bed can increase sleep quality. Plus there's no temptation to browse Twitter, scroll Instagram, or start looking at tomorrow's to-do list until nodding off.
digital detox
Improve Overall Health
Spending hours looking down at digital devices increases neck and back pain. Don't forget headaches and eye strains. I know all too well the effects of staring at screens too long and on my worst days, the migraine is unbearable. Taking a break lets the brain rest and take a break from overprocessing information. The brain easily becomes overly stimulated and finds focusing on things much harder. A break will allow a sense of calm that lessens anxiety.
digital detox
Enjoy Time to Yourself & Find Balance
Taking a break away from devices shows how much time is spent on them. A digital consumption inventory if you will. Lessening device use teaches everyone they don't always have to be "on" or available for answering right away. It gives everyone a chance to get to know themselves again and reclaim their time. Something that can let us be with our own thoughts and learn how to be still.
digital detox
Increase Attention Span
As I said, the brain is overstimulated when it comes to digital devices. There is so much to look at and get involved in. So much browsing and mindless online cart filling to do. Taking a break increases focus and gives us more time to pay attention to meaningful things. Take time to learn something new or finish something that's been put off for a while. Replace the phone with healthy and more meaningful activities.
digital detox
Improve Productivity and Creativity
As someone who works in a fairly creative field, I know how easy it is to become burnt out. Taking time away can reignite the necessary brain power to produce better content and find better approaches to simple problems. With less time spent browsing mindlessly, there's more time to put into projects. Things will just turn out better and with better quality. The best ideas truly come to you when you're not stuck to a digital device. It's a win/win.