Like many people, when your body starts to feel fatigued, or skin is breaking out from drinking a bit too much wine or eating more junk food than usual, you'll do a cleanse or detox of some variety. It could be a juice cleanse or maybe an elimination diet, but the point is, you realize your body and mind needs some time to recharge. It can be hard at first, but the rewards always outweigh the momentary pain.
While being more aware of what you eat has its benefits, refreshing your whole self involves more than that. From a holistic perspective, it also means taking a look at how you use your time. If you're spending all day, every day, on electronics, it could mean it's time for a digital detox. A "DD" is a period in which you refrain from using your devices: smartphone, laptop, or iPad, to name a few.
Today, many of us have jobs that force us to be on a computer all day, and when we’re not on our laptop or desktop, we’re on our phone. Social media marketing, content writing, and digital marketing careers don’t leave much time for us not to be, but even if you’re not in any of those fields, you’re not exempt.
One study found that the average person uses their phone 132 times a day, and touches their phone 2,617 times a day.
Levi Felix, co-founder of Digital Detox and Camp Grounded, states that our addiction to our devices is very real “Every new notification or text triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that drives us to seek rewards, so you keep coming back for more.”
In addition, multiple studies show there is a link between technology, depression, and anxiety; this is especially prevalent amongst those who use social media heavily.
But that's just tipping the scale. A few other adverse effects of using our devices on a regular basis include:
- Poor sleep
- Dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and eyestrain
- Decreased productivity (due to social media, text messages, emails and other notifications)
- Lack of presence (not enjoying the actual moment)
- Headaches
- Anxiety
While technology is wonderful in so many ways, it can take a negative toll on our body, which makes it essential for our well-being to take a break.
A digital detox can be as simple as turning off notifications, deleting your social media apps off your phone for a weekend, or making it a rule not to use your phone or laptop after 8 pm.
Instead of checking your social media or emails before bed, create a new ritual: try meditating, practicing yoga, or making some tea and catching up on a good book.
When we detox from our electronics, we’re slowing down, allowing our mind and body recharge. This can yield amazing results like our stress to deteriorate, our skin to clear up, and our energy levels skyrocket.