Digital Detox, healthy habits to unplug

How to free yourself from mobile addiction

In the digital age, our mobile devices have become an extension of ourselves. They keep us connected, informed, and entertained. However, excessive use can lead to a silent addiction that affects our health and well being. Here are some healthy habits to help you disconnect from the screen and enjoy the real world more.

Set clear limits

Sometimes, we feel an urgent need to check who’s seen our post, the likes received on a publication, or simply to browse the vast amount of content available on social media. To avoid being so connected, we recommend setting specific times to check your phone. Try not using it during meals, before bed, or upon waking up. These key moments without digital distractions can improve your life quality and personal relationships.

Morning routine without screens

Start the day with activities that don’t involve your phone, such as meditation, exercising with a sports routine, journaling, or simply enjoying a peaceful breakfast. Make it a point to have your devices turned off. Establishing this morning routine without the influence of technology can help you have a more productive and less anxious day.

Notifications are the enemies of focus

Constant notifications can be a huge distraction. Evaluate which apps really need notifications and turn off the rest. This will allow you to focus on your tasks without constant interruptions and reduce the urge to check your phone every moment.

Find alternatives to digital entertainment

Your phone is often our main source of entertainment, but there are many other ways to enjoy your free time. Read a book, practice a sport, learn to play a musical instrument, or try a manual hobby like origami. These activities will not only help you disconnect from your phone but also enrich your life.

The 20-20-20 rule

If your job requires you to be in front of a screen, apply the 20-20-20 rule to rest your eyes: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away (about 6 meters) for at least 20 seconds. This will also give you a brief break from the digital world.

Use Apps that promote well being

Although it may seem contradictory to use your phone to disconnect from it, there are apps designed to encourage healthy habits. Meditation apps, sleep trackers, or reminders to drink water can be useful tools to improve your overall well-being. We recommend apps like: Headspace, Calm, Meditopia, MyFitnessPal, Happify, and Waterminder. If you know of other apps that promote stability and calm, we’d love for you to share their names and links in the comments.

Mindfulness and being in the present

Practicing mindfulness helps you live in the present moment and be aware of your actions, including phone usage. Before unlocking your phone, ask yourself if you really need to do it or if it’s just an automatic action.

Digital detox as a habit

Choose one day a week to do a digital detox. On this day, avoid using your phone and any other electronic devices. This habit will allow you to reconnect with your surroundings and the people around you, as well as give you a well-deserved technological break.

Balance is key

Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate phone usage, but to find a balance that allows you to enjoy its benefits without falling into dependency. Being aware of your habits and taking proactive steps to control screen time is essential for your physical and mental health.