The Benefits of Unplugging

With more and more people becoming connected through technology and social media every day it's important to remember that while technology can be extremely beneficial to us, it can be harmful for our mental well-being.
You've more than likely heard time and time again to "put down the phone" and "unplug" and "detox from social media". Maybe it hasn't stuck yet, or maybe you're stuck in a cycle of unplugging and plugging back in. That's alright! Let's just go through some of the benefits of unplugging from news, social media, and technology and we'll give you some easy ways to view less of those things.

What are the benefits?

You'll interact with others more.

Leave your cellphone at home next time you go out, or at home with your partner or roommate. Try to be engaged with others as much as possible in person. During a pandemic, and in more virtual spaces it's harder to be in person, however, Zoom hang-outs and talking over the phone is great for connection.

You might not feel the need to compare yourself as much (FOMO).

Social media is a great way to share parts of your life that you're proud of or that you think others would find interesting. Most of the time we only share those good parts of our lives, not the reality of the life we live or the more negative things that go on. We can only see so much into people's lives through social media so it's good to unplug to remind ourselves that we can continue to live and exist in this world without comparing ourselves to others.

You get more time to check-in with yourself.

Put your phone on the charger in another room and check in with yourself for a little while. How are you feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally? Try a mindfulness practice (or use the Calm app on your phone to de-stress). Light a candle and sit with your thoughts. Go for a walk and notice the sounds, sights, and smells of your neighborhood.

Stress Recovery

It's no surprise that constantly seeing negative news, social media drama, and using technology can make us stressed. It's time to listen to those studies telling you that social media and technology can be harmful to your mental health. De-stress without using your phone by listening to music, playing music, taking a bath, taking a nap, starting a project, creating art, or going on a hike.
You don't have to unplug forever from social media or technology! Try deleting an app from your phone or curating your social media newsfeed to more positive posts.

Here are some more ways to take a break and unplug:

Commit to zero technology for the first hour you’re awake. Focus on meditation and your upcoming day
Choose a power down hour during your day. Maybe it is in the morning as suggested above, or maybe you want the break at lunch or before bed
Schedule time to take extended breaks. Choose days throughout the year where you only use your phone for texting and calling
Take a moment to visit your favorite destination and leave your phone behind. Go outside and enjoy nature without sharing it.
Replace the habit with something else. Try reading a book before bed instead of scrolling through social media.
If you do want to view social media every day, curate your feeds. Follow people who are good for your mental health.

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