Digital Detox Guide: Live Life Beyond The Screen!

Have you ever wanted a little break from screens and notifications in the relentless hustle of academic pursuits? If so, you're in the right place. A digital detox is when you cut yourself off from all sources of social media and digital connection. With this blog, we aim to cover everything there is to know about a digital detox. You will also get a few insights on how to go about the process and its benefits. So, if you're ready to start your digital detox process, let's get started right away!

What Is Digital Detox?

One of the most common items found in literally every person's hand is a mobile phone. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, the term "digital detox" has gained popularity as a cure for the constant connection we have with our mobiles and other screens. So, a digital detox naturally means to consciously and temporarily disconnect from any digital services, social media, and everything virtual. The question then arises: do you need one?

Did you know that close to about 61% of people admit that they are addicted to the internet and their mobile phones? Another study showed that about 25% of people who own smartphones between the ages of 18 and 44 don't remember taking a substantial break from their phones. Seems a bit dramatic, doesn't it? As far as a digital cleanse is concerned, it is quite evident how necessary it can be and the benefits of getting one are countless. 

Do You Need A Digital Detox?

As students, the best way to know if you're in need of a phone detox is to keep an eye on the signs. When someone's in need of a digital detox from internet and other related things, there will be a few very evident signs. Technology can be stressful and intense, which is why it is very important to keep in check how much of your capacity is dedicated to this. Students might experience the following signs if they’re in need of a digital detox:

1. You get anxious and stressed if you can't find your mobile phone, laptop, or tablet.
2. You have an uncontrollable urge to check your phone every few minutes
3. Spending time on social media makes you feel depressed, anxious, or angry.
4. You're scared of missing out on something important if you don't check your phone
5. You can't seem to concentrate on one thing without checking your phone. 

These are just a few signs you may experience if you're in need of a serious digital and electronic detox. The signs may differ from person to person, depending on their utility and time management. And now that you know the signs and the clear detox digitally meaning, you may also wonder the reasons as to why you should do it. Keep reading to find out:

Benefits of Digital Detox

For a lot of people and students, staying connected to the world digitally is very crucial. Digital connection with the world can be the only solution for students who are far from their families and friends. However, too much of anything can be a problem. If you're somebody who is glued to their phones and basically dependent on them for everything, you may want to consider a digital detox, and here are a few benefits of digital detox:

1. Increased Calmness

One of the best things about having a phone detox is the sense of calmness you will feel after doing it. Several studies over the years have found that taking a scheduled break from the digital world can significantly lower stress levels, resulting in more calmness. One of the best benefits of digital detox is that you can find the time to focus on things that make you happier, which should be the ultimate goal.

2. Productivity Boost

It's not surprising that less usage of phones and digital devices can lead to more productivity. Surfing the internet is time-consuming and can distract you from your responsibilities. One of the biggest benefits of digital detox is that it can massively help you focus on things that need to get done, including academics, professional commitments, and more. 

3. Self-Content

Social media apps are known to create feelings of self-doubt, insecurities, and missing out. Once you cut yourself from them with a digital cleanse, you are bound to see a difference in how you see yourself. Another benefit of digital detox is that you won't feel the need to compare yourself with what you see online, and neither will you doubt your potential. Think about it!

4. Healthier Lifestyle

Another extremely crucial benefit of digital detox is the health factor. Once you begin your digital detox, you can avoid problems like blurry visions, headaches, teary eyes, strains, and neck aches. In fact, some people may even get glasses due to excessive screen time. Don't let that happen to you!

5. Better Sleep

Staring and using your phone during sleep time will keep your brain awake and alert. As a result, the release of melatonin gets hampered. A lack of sleep and an improper sleep schedule can cause a wide range of health concerns in the long run, which is why a digital detox can be important. 

6. Boosts Mood and Human Connection

Being so connected to our phones gets in the way of our mood and social interactions. By having a digital detox, we can immerse ourselves in nature, which has been proven to increase human happiness. This is one of the best benefits of digital detox in terms of outdoor activities and social interaction. 

7. Lesser Stress and Anxiety

Speaking of the benefits of digital detox, did you know that spending time offline has proven to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, by 21%? Numerous studies have proved that being addicted to our mobile phones and social media can have adverse effects on our stress and anxiety levels. Consider a digital detox and see the difference in your levels. And now, If you're convinced that you need a digital detox, it's time to learn more about how to go about it.

Digital Detox Tips for Students

Going through a digital detox may just be as hard as quitting coffee. We're all so used to technology and digital services that cutting them out may be the hardest thing to do. This is why we're here to help you with a step-by-step guide that can help you with the process. In addition, have a look at some Digital Detox applications, which can help massively in your journey! Here's a guide on how to start:

1. Turn off push notifications

For those who don't know, 'push notifications' are notifications that pop up on your screen from certain applications with snippets of what the notification is about. The moment you see them, you'll be tempted to open the app and check the notification out. The best way to avoid this is by turning the notifications off! 

2. Convert to black and white

Researchers also believe we're all addicted to our phones because of the vibrant colours. Most smartphones now come with an option to change the saturation settings to grayscale, which won't feel as appealing as before. It's definitely worth giving a shot!

3. Put away your phone during meals

It's considered disrespectful to use your phone during a meal, and it is also a source of distraction. It is suggested that the best way to avoid phone and screen time during your digital detox phase is to keep your phone away during meals. It may also be a good way to communicate better. 

4. Designate tech-free hours

Designate a few hours during your day when you won't touch your phone. This is one of the most crucial and helpful parts of a digital detox. Keep your phone or electronic device away for a few hours when you know you won't need it. You could even consider maintaining a journal to keep track of your digital detox progress. It may just end up doing the trick for you!

5. Try making your bedroom a no-phone zone

Another excellent way to do a digital cleanse is to keep your phone in a separate location other than your bedroom. Those who use it as an alarm clock can consider investing in one so they don't get tempted to scroll their phones after switching off an alarm. 

6. Rediscover Newspapers

Newspapers have a charm of their own. However, with the emergence of technology, even news is available at a click. Consider going back to the age-old concept of newspapers, which can help eliminate screen time. After all, a newspaper will always be evergreen, won't it?

7. Limit to one screen

There have been instances in our lives as students or working professionals where we've had to use two screens at the same time. That can be counterproductive during a digital detox. Try making a habit of looking at just one screen at a time during your preparation for a detox. It may be more important than you think. 

8. Clean your social media accounts

Social media is the best way to stay connected to your friends and family. However, the more time we spend on it, the more disconnected we are from the real world. In fact, an excessive amount of time on social media apps can have a direct impact on a person's mental health. Don't be afraid to remove these apps for a little peace of mind. And for busy students, we advise them to take student health services seriously and utilise them for good. 

9. Download the right apps

While there may be several social media apps, there are also a number of apps that can help with a digital detox considerably. Apps like Freedom allow you to block whatever apps and websites that distract you from your work. The goal here is to help you focus, and this is the best app for it. Choosing online study courses will allow you to make better use of your screen time. Instead of merely scrolling through social media, you can learn something enjoyable, such as a new language, with an app like Duolingo.

10. Protect yourself

As mentioned above, excessive screen time can lead to health problems as well, Which is why it is advised to follow the 20-20-20 rule. This rule basically means that after looking at a screen for 20 minutes, you should look at an object 20 feet in distance for 20 seconds. Try it out for yourself and see the difference!

If you wish to start your digital detox, these ten steps should help you get started. Of course, you can tweak this according to your preferences, but the gist of it remains the same. In order to have a successful digital detox, it is important to find ways that best suit you. And there are also a few places and retreats that serve as excellent destinations for digital detoxing. To know more, keep scrolling. 

Digital Detox Destinations For Students

People can find a number of destinations and retreats around the world that have been designed specifically for digital detox. Detoxing social media is not an easy task, but it can surely be done. These retreats have special programs and exercises that help you detox from mobile phones and everything in between. Mentioned below are some of the best ones: 

1. Sheldon Chalet, Alaska

Best Known For: Serenity and icy landscapes

The Sheldon Chaley in Alaska is one of the best places for a digital detox. This unplugged travel destination gives you the chance to get away from everything. You can access this place by plane or helicopter, as it is located on top of a glacier 6000 feet above Denali National Park. Due to its location, you won't have any access to Wi-Fi or cell phone coverage, making it an excellent place for phone detox. 

2. Loire Valley Lodges, France

Best Known For: Massages, sound baths, spas

The Loire Valley Lodges is a 300-private property comprising 18 boutique treehouses. This is a great option for unplugged travel and is strictly adult-only. The place does not have Wi-Fi or TVs. Instead, visitors can use radios to connect with the staff. 

3. Chiva Som, Thailand

Best Known For: Detox regimes, physiotherapy, and aqua aerobics

Chiva Som is one of the most famous temples of wellness. For over 25 years, It has been helping mind and body rejuvenation. In an attempt to maintain the resort's ambience, electronic devices are prohibited outside the rooms. 

4. The Glass House, Essex

Best Known For: Natural swimming, plant-based meals, and spas

Located less than an hour from central London, The Glass House is one of the best digital detox resorts. This place offers a variety of detox programs, including the Wellness Break. The Wellness Break is a minimum two-night stay program in which visitors must deposit their phones in a safe before starting with the different wellness activities. 

5. The Detox Barn, Suffolk

Best Known For: Gardens, yoga, and meditation.

The Suffolk Barn has earned the reputation of being one of the top choices for digital detox resorts. A resort run by two sisters, this top destination for unplugged travel offers retreats for two nights of tech-free activities. The activities here include cooking classes, guided nature walks, yoga and meditation services, and movie nights. With open fires and huge gardens, there's no place better for a disconnect from tech!

6. Daintree, Australia

Best Known For: Flora and fauna

The Daintree Rainforest is one of the best digital detox destinations for students. It is spread over 1200 square kilometres and is known as the best biologically diverse rainforest around the world. Here, every accommodation comes without any phone connection or Wi-Fi, making it an excellent choice. 

7. Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany

Best Known For: Turkish Baths, plunge pools, sauna.

This is one of the few hotels where students can go for a digital detox. In the villas, the rooms are painted specifically in copper plates, which are used to block electronic signals. The hotel is over 150 years old and is one of the best places to consider for a digital detox. 

This brings us to the end of our blog on digital detox. Now that you know everything there is to know about this process, it's time to get on with it. In addition to this, take some time to go through the Importance of Mental Health, which is exactly why a digital detox is important. Wishing you a successful detox journey! A digital detox can be an effective way to improve our overall well-being and reduce the negative effects of excessive technology use. Taking care of your mental health is vital in this generation, so to help you out, read more on student mental health and how to take care of it.

This brings us to the end of our blog on digital detox. Now that you know everything there is to know about this process, it's time to get on with it. In addition to this, take some time to go through the Importance of Mental Health, which is exactly why a digital detox is important. Wishing you a successful detox journey! A digital detox can be an effective way to improve our overall well-being and reduce the negative effects of excessive technology use. Taking care of your mental health is vital in this generation, so to help you out, read more on student mental health and how to take care of it.