In our fast-paced, always-connected world, it’s more important than ever to take a break from technology. All that screen time can be overwhelming and distracting, leading to burnout and decreased creativity. But it’s not always easy to unplug.
Here are several ways to take a break from Apple, Android, social media, and everything else tech-related and reboot your brain.
Family time
One of the best ways to take a break from technology is to spend quality time with your family. Put down those smartphones, turn off the TV, and have some face-to-face time with the people you love. Go for a walk, sit and talk, cook a meal together, and avoid smart television, laptops, and other devices. You’ll be surprised how much more connected you feel.
This can be a practice that you decide to do once a week, for example, or even once a day, for a couple of hours. In that period, try not to use technology at all, meaning to leave your Whirpool washing machines and Intel computers off.
Organizing games nights
If you want to take a break from technology without completely disconnecting, organizing a games night is a great way to do it.
Gather your friends or family for an evening of board games, cards, or even just chatting about your favorite game. If you really love card games, you can get one of those customized playmats with card zones, so you can keep your cards in front of you without having to hold them. This is a great way to have some fun and relax without relying on screens, and if you want to take a break from your digital interactions and make a real live card-game night with family or friends.
Reading
Another great way to take a break from consumer tech, such as digital reading platforms, like Kindle, is to indulge in a good old-fashioned book. Reading can be a great way to escape the world for a little while and lose yourself in another story. Not to mention, it’s been shown to improve focus, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Whether you’re into fiction, non-fiction, biographies, or comics, reading is a great way to disconnect and focus on a story. Reading can also be a great way to wind down before bed. To find your favorite spot, curl up is to read a book.
Trying out new hobbies
Have you always wanted to learn a new skill or hobby, but never had the time? Now is your chance! With a break from activities that technology offers, like Wii or VR, you can explore new hobbies that don’t require a screen.
Take up gardening, hiking, bird watching, or anything else that interests you. Not only will you broaden your horizons, but you’ll likely find the process quite relaxing. You can finally devote some time to learning that instrument you’ve always wanted to play, taking up painting, or starting a new sport.
Physical activity
Another great way to take a break from technology is by getting active. Go outside for a run, bike ride, or walk. Or, if the weather isn’t cooperating, head to the gym or do some at-home exercises. Not only will you get some exercise, but you’ll also get some fresh air and vitamin D.
The point is to leave your screens at home and have some time for yourself.
Meditating
If you’re looking for a way to completely disconnect from technology, meditation may be the answer. Meditation can help improve focus, decrease stress, and improve sleep quality. And, you don’t need any special equipment or training to do it.
All you need is a quiet place to sit or recline, and 10-15 minutes of your time. You can either focus on your breath or on a mantra or word that you repeat to yourself. If you find your mind wandering, simply bring your attention back to your breath or mantra.
On the other hand, yoga can also help with the wondering mind of everyday stress and excessive use of technology. Try a few gentle poses to help you relax, focus, and center yourself. There’s no need to go to a studio or buy any equipment—you can do yoga anywhere. However, if you’re a beginner, make sure to have a trainer in front of you.
Technology can be a great way to connect with friends and family, learn new things, and stay entertained. However, it’s important to take breaks from technology now and then to focus on other things.
These ways are a great place to start, but feel free to come up with your own ideas, too.