After embarking on a digital detox, your brain should feel as light as a feather. But rejoining the connected world can be a little overwhelming. Bad habits can resurface. And you can get sucked back into the ‘busy problem’ without even knowing it.
So how can you continue to ride the wave of clarity and take what you’ve learned into real life? Here are our top 10 ways to keep connected with yourself, rather than your devices.
1. Have Phone-Free Zones
Dedicate certain areas of your home that you won’t use your phone. The dining table and bedroom as easy places to start. This will not only reduce your screen time, it’ll make sure you’re making the most of quality personal or family time.
2. Set App Limits
If you know your Achilles’ heel is TikTok or Instagram, setting time limits on your apps will help you avoid mindless scrolling. Head to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits and you can set allowances for every app.
3. Download Freedom
If you’re still not happy about your screen-time, download the Freedom app. It blocks distracting apps on all your different devices, and keeps you in control. Plus, Unplugged guests even get one month free (use code CABIN100)
4. Switch Off Notifications
Stop the tide of constant digital interruptions by limiting your exposure to non-essential notifications. Get rid of that annoying pocket vibration, and try turning off push notifications for social media apps and emails when you're not at work. You can even set up a recurring ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode for particular focus times.
5. Try a Screen Free Saturday
Give a mini digital detox a go by picking a ‘no screens’ day. Not only does this provide a regular break from tech, it will make you more mindful about your digital habits. Also, it helps make sure you’re connecting with those around you without being distracted by technology.
6. No Phone Hour after Waking Up
Resist the temptation of checking your phone as soon as you wake up. Take some time to start your day away from a screen - meditation, journaling or a brisk morning walk without your phone are great ways to set a peaceful tone for the day.
7. Swap Netflix for a Games Night
Cut out an evening scrolling through Netflix and reconnect with hobbies that don't require screens – reading, painting, board games, or simply spending some more time in nature. Rekindle your joy for all things outside the digital world.
8. Invest in a Light Therapy Alarm Clock
Using your phone right before bed or first thing in the morning is harmful for your body. A Lumie alarm clock gradually brightens in the morning to make you feel naturally wide awake, and removes the need to use your phone as an alarm clock
9. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
If you do have to use a screen more than you’d like, make sure you give your eyes a well-deserved break. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This not only reduces eye strain but also encourages you to cut down on continuous screen time.
10. Unfriend Unnecessary Apps
You could even go a step further and remove apps that consume an excessive amount of your time or aren’t being used. Think about keeping your digital environment clutter-free - which folders on your home screen are filled with apps that only offer distractions?
Going from a complete digital detox back to everyday life can be challenging, but with these tips, you can continue to enjoy the peace and focus that come with reduced screen time. Remember, it's all about balance and finding what routine can work best for you. Happy Unplugging!