Do you need a digital detox?

Destress and focus your mind with our digital switch-off tips

Spending hours looking at a monitor in the day then at home scrolling through a phone or watching TV in the evening? It can seem like our entire lives are spent viewing a screen.

If you feel you need a break from the constant pinging of messages and distraction of notifications, then why not try a digital detox? This means to take a break from electronic devices and digital media for a while, either completely disconnecting or reducing your screen time for better overall health.

Do you need a digital detox?

Many of us don’t feel addicted to our devices. Whilst digital media has brought us so many time-saving positives, it can make some of us feel lazy, depressed, anxious, sleepless. It can also be bad for our eyesight, with many of us looking at a screen for up to 14 hours per day. If this sounds like you, it may be time to reduce screen time to protect your eyes from dryness and irration.

How do I start detoxing?

Winter is a great time for starting a new hobby. Embrace the long dark evenings and take up a new creative interest or pursuit. Read that book that you’ve been wanting to start for a while. Or try a new sport or club for some physical exercise.

Leave your phone in a different room. Connect with friends for dinner. Or call a friend that you haven’t spoken to for a while.

Ditch your phone in the evening for a better night’s sleep. Studies show that blue light emitted by smartphones and screens can interfere with your body’s natural rhythm contributing to poor sleep. Consider device free time after 7pm for a week and see how your body reacts.

How do I digitally detox at work?

It’s not easy for office workers to function without a screen, especially hybrid workers who rely on digital technology to keep in touch with colleagues. But there are little adjustments you can make to reduce the time spent on digital media. Give your brain a little break and try these simple suggestions:

• Write down to do lists on a notepad or project book. Who doesn’t love a Pukka Pad for keeping notes organised? Why not treat yourself to a new handwriting pen too?

• Use a paper calendar, planner or diary for scheduling in meetings. We have a range of executive diaries that are both attractive and practical along with perpetual calendars and diaries that can be erased and used again.

• Turn your email notifications off and only check twice a day. This helps to avoid being distracted, letting you focus on completing a task.

• Instead of emailing a colleague, walk over for a chat.

• Cut down on device use at lunchtime. Instead, connect with friends, take a walk or read a book during your break.

• Avoid checking email after hours to ensure you switch off before bed.

• Try closing the drawer on your phone for a while. Out of sight, out of mind!

If you are interested in any of the products featured give our team a call for more information.