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Digital Detox: Steps to Unplug and Recharge

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Digital Detox: Steps to Unplug and RechargeDigital Detox: Steps to Unplug and Recharge
November 7, 2019 This article was authored by admin
Digital Detox: Steps to Unplug and Recharge

Step Away from The Phone

by Stephanie Catalano

With screen time replacing connection and conversation, separation and skills are compromised. Now more than ever, it’s time to resist the urge to be 24/7 plugged in.

Step Away from The Phone & Here’s Why

Humans are biologically, cognitively, physically, and spiritually wired for connection. Every person wants to love, be loved, and belong. The biggest problem in most people’s lives today are their devices. Most don’t recognize this to be the problem, but it is problematic.

People complain an awful lot about how difficult it is to get their kids to put down their phones, but let’s be honest – most adults have the same difficulty disconnecting from technology. From friendships to marriages, devices are becoming a barrier, and even a problem. It’s not hard to find evidence of phones and devices taking priority over real connection and conversation. The next time at a restaurant, take a look around, chances are people, including couples, will be on their phone. They can be sitting directly across from each other, face-to-face, yet staring down at their screens.

People are struggling today more than ever before, especially kids. From children to adolescents, they are presenting with concerning behaviors such as struggling to make eye contact, poor coping skills, difficulty forming relationships, lack of motivation and interests outside of their devices. This is a problem because if kids spend most of their time connecting and communicating primarily through devices and not face-to-face, the brain may not further develop the neural pathways that are a vital part of human development regarding the ability to connect and communicate with others.

The prefrontal cortex of the brain is not completely developed until most people are in their 20’s. This part of the brain is responsible for the ability to think things through, decision-making, and willpower, so the overuse of phones and devices can interrupt the development of this crucial component of cognition. It is also a concern that children will become addicted to their devices because there is a biochemical reaction taking place when they get a text or notification. This biochemical reaction occurs in children, adolescents, and adults, however, the younger it starts, the more problems it can cause.

Every time the phone beeps with a new text or notification, the brain lights up and releases chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Because of this, people are constantly distracted and struggling to stay focused and on task out of the urge to check their devices. This is no different than a person struggling with alcoholism and/or drug addiction. They experience the urge, which becomes an obsession, often leading to relapse. In this case, people attempt to put their phones down, but eventually pick them back up because of their own obsession and the need to check their texts and notifications “right now.”

It’s easy to agree, there is an overflow of entertainment and information available to people simply by picking up their phones, and because of this, people are never left to be bored and with nothing to do. While this may seem to be okay, it is actually doing more harm than good. People are no longer left to sit with themselves, to interact and engage in social settings, to experience life in their true reality, outside of the reality they live through social media, video games, and the news. Boredom or having nothing to do is actually necessary as it’s an opportunity to process, self-reflect, build creativity, and learn how to accept what is.

Here are three ways to do a Digital Detox:

  1. Be a leader, a good role model – be less plugged in and more present, especially if there’s children involved. Children learn from their parents and you can expect them to follow their behaviors.
  2. Ban devices at dinner and any tech from the table – use table time to have real face time. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner use that time to be present, a time to have meaningful conversations, a time to disconnect from devices, a time to just be.
  3. Alert friends and family – turning off the phone and devices can make it difficult to be reachable, but let friends, family, and even work know that way they don’t worry. This will allow people to have moments off their phone and devices whether it be to read a book, exercise, or enjoy the outdoors.

Step Away from The Phone – How to Do a Digital Detox in 1, 2, 3.Meet Stephanie

Stephanie Catalano is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Personal Development Author, and Life Coach with experience in the fields of Child Welfare, Mental Health, and Substance Use with three published books to date. Stephanie’s mission is to empower individuals as they work towards reaching their highest potential.

To learn more about Stephanie, visit www.stephanierobilio.com and follow her on Emenator @mindfulliving, Instagram @mindfulliving.now, and Facebook @mindfulliving for daily inspiration, Mindful skills, tips, and more. Find Mindful Makeover Workbook and Guide on Amazon and check out The Mindful Makeover Podcast available on iTunes and Spotify.

Article Published On Lake Oconee Health
Step Away from The Phone – How to Do a Digital Detox in 1, 2, 3.

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time

As screen time replaces meaningful connection, essential skills and relationships suffer. It’s crucial to resist the constant urge to stay plugged in.

The Challenge of Disconnecting

Humans are naturally wired for connection, yet the pervasive presence of devices poses a significant challenge. Both adults and children struggle to disconnect, hindering genuine interpersonal connections.

Effects on Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents, in particular, are susceptible to the negative consequences of excessive screen time. From difficulty forming relationships to poor coping skills, the overreliance on devices impedes their social and emotional development. Additionally, prolonged screen exposure may hinder the proper development of the prefrontal cortex, impacting critical cognitive functions.

The Psychological Impact of Phone Addiction

Phone addiction exhibits parallels with substance addiction, with individuals experiencing a biochemical reaction to notifications. The constant urge to check devices leads to distraction and a lack of focus, resembling the struggles faced by individuals with alcohol or drug addiction. This perpetual distraction prevents full engagement with one’s surroundings.

The Importance of Embracing Boredom

While smartphones offer endless entertainment and information, they also detract from moments of boredom, which are essential for personal growth. Embracing boredom allows for engagement with true reality, fostering creativity, self-reflection, and acceptance of the present moment.

Strategies for Reducing Screen Time

To address the challenges posed by excessive screen time, individuals can implement various strategies. Setting boundaries and designated screen-free times or zones within the home can help create a healthier balance. Encouraging outdoor activities and hobbies that do not involve screens can also provide alternative sources of entertainment and connection.

Parental Role in Modeling Healthy Behavior

Parents play a crucial role in modeling healthy screen habits for their children. By prioritizing face-to-face interactions and limiting their own screen use, parents can set a positive example and encourage mindful technology consumption within the family. Open communication about the importance of moderation and the potential consequences of excessive screen time can also foster awareness and accountability.

Creating Tech-Free Spaces

Designating specific areas of the home as tech-free zones can help promote mindful living and facilitate genuine connections among family members. Bedrooms, dining areas, and outdoor spaces can be designated as screen-free zones to encourage relaxation, conversation, and quality time without distractions.

Embracing Digital Detoxes

Periodic digital detoxes can provide individuals and families with an opportunity to reset their relationship with technology and reconnect with the present moment. Whether it’s a weekend retreat in nature or a designated screen-free day each week, carving out time for digital detoxes can promote mindfulness, creativity, and overall well-being.

Seeking Professional Support

For individuals struggling to manage their screen time or overcome phone addiction, seeking support from mental health professionals or addiction specialists may be beneficial. Therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or addiction counseling, can provide individuals with the tools and support they need to regain control over their technology use and prioritize meaningful connections.

Tags: cell phones, computers, digital detox, internet, notifications, screens, stephanie catalano, texts, the mindful living

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