Thanks to the proliferation of the internet, 90 percent of people are hooked on their devices. They simply can’t put things down.
Unfortunately, that’s a bad thing. It means we’re damaging our health in numerous ways. For instance, spending too much time on the internet can lead to addiction, blood clots, spinal issues, and anxiety.
If that sounds like you, don’t worry: this post is here to help. Here, we take a deep dive into what it means to go on a digital detox and how you can live a healthier lifestyle online. Here’s what to do:
Tip 1: Set Boundaries Around Device Usage
The first way to start your digital detox is to set boundaries around device usage. It's easy to get sucked into the endless scrolling on social media, but it's crucial to limit the amount of time we spend online. Try to set specific times of the day when you'll allow yourself to check your phone or use your computer.
For example, you might set a rule that you won't use your phone during meal times or after a certain time in the evening. Also, avoid it when talking to your partner. “Phubbing” where you use your device while in conversation with others can harm relationships.
The more you set boundaries, the more you’ll stay in the present moment. And that’s great for anyone who wants to live joyfully and freely.
Tip 2: Remove “Digital Clutter” From Your Life
Next, take a look at whether you’re holding onto digital clutter. Digital devices can accumulate a lot of unnecessary data, from old emails to unused apps. Take some time to declutter your digital life by deleting old emails, clearing out your downloads folder, and deleting apps you no longer use. By streamlining your digital life, you'll be able to find what you need more easily and feel less overwhelmed.
Remember, going around with a phone that’s 99 percent full all the time isn’t a lot of fun. Every time you want to take a new picture, you have to go through and manually delete something else. It’s not ideal.
Tip 3: Prioritize Things In Your Life That Don’t Involve Screen Time
Another great tip for a healthier life online is to prioritize things that don’t involve screen time. The list of activities you can choose from is potentially endless.
For instance, you could start reading a book, going for a walk, or practicing yoga. By prioritizing screen-free activities, you'll be able to reduce your screen time and give your eyes and brain a break from digital stimulation. You’ll also give yourself more time to explore your life fully instead of feeling like you’re endlessly chained to the screen. Spending time away from devices makes it easier to negotiate with life in a natural way.
Tip 4: Check Your Security
Next, you’ll want to focus on improving your security online. Getting it wrong can lead to all sorts of problems, such as stolen data and lost money.
It’s important to learn how to detect a keylogger, a program that records everything you type on your keyboard. Figuring out whether you’re under threat protects you and your possessions from harm, and it can also prevent identity theft.
Tip 5: Practice Mindfulness
Another strategy you can try is mindfulness. Being mindful means being fully present in the moment and focusing on your surroundings, something that’s challenging in the digital age, where we're constantly distracted by notifications and online content.
However, research shows that practicing mindfulness helps to keep you grounded and level, even after an exhausting week. It reduces stress and helps you to look on the bright side of life.
Try to incorporate mindfulness practices into your day, such as meditation, deep breathing, or taking a mindful walk. By focusing on the present moment, you'll be able to reduce your reliance on technology and find more peace every day.
Tip 6: Go On A Full-Blown Digital Detox
Lastly, if you’re feeling really brave, you might want to consider going on a full-blown digital detox. This involves taking a break from all digital devices for a set period, such as a day, weekend, or even a week. Most people do it on the weekend when they don’t have work, either Saturday or Sunday, but you can also do it on the holidays or vacation.
During a digital detox, you'll be able to disconnect from the constant stimulation of technology and focus on other activities. This can help you feel more refreshed and rejuvenated, and give you a new perspective on your relationship with technology. It can have a profound effect on your mind.