It’s no secret that most of us are hooked up to some kind of electronic device for a part of each day. We are generally comfortable with this situation, most of the time. But, read on for why it is also important to think about needing/scheduling to unplug some of the time.
Re-Set Moments
However, it’s important to realise that our bodies and brains were never intended to be so reliant on technology. We experience a level of stress when we are subject to the constant stimulation of a life lived through engagement with social media, Teams/Zoom meetings, and expecting a response in a nano-second to a question we input. The sense of frustration we can feel if the computer has a glitch or the phone runs out of battery life may be intense and if it disrupts the day and your mood, then it is definitely time to consider a re-set moment for yourself!
Whilst there are indeed many advantages to living and learning in the age of high-tech, there are definitely corresponding advantages in making time for a little “spiritual hygiene” and pulling the plug on the screen. Taking it slowly and finding time to connect in a different way allows the body’s stress responses to settle down, reducing anxiety. There’s no urgency, simply a time to ALLOW and FEEL in an unhurried and tranquil mindset, acknowledging your need for peace in and around you.
Unplug in Nature
Taking time in nature and allowing yourself to unwind is perhaps the easiest way to unplug for a day, and if you are able to it’s important to extend this across the overnight period as well, as the electronic detox will benefit your sleep quality. Indeed, it’s always good practice to avoid any screen time for an hour or so before bedtime, as our brains can become over-stimulated and find it hard to switch off for sleep on cue. This is especially the case with gaming or even watching the news where your mind begins to overthink and the stress responses kick in.
If you’re spending time outside do walk barefoot, as long as it’s safe to do so, and connect with the earth beneath. Breathe deeply and allow the sounds and scents to fill your consciousness, letting go of all that has brought you tension or difficulty. Letting your feet dangle in a swiftly running stream it’s easy to imagine the water washing away your troubles and bringing in fresh energy to refresh you.
Take a Tech Holiday
On a holiday you can perhaps afford to unplug for a number of days, bringing so much more value to the time you have to relax! Organise anything that has to be done online before you go, and if it’s vital to keep in touch electronically, try to limit it to just 30 minutes at a set time of day.
Do yourself a favour and build a regular “down-time” into the week where nothing electronic is allowed to intrude, and you will soon begin to notice how much more relaxed you feel.
It doesn’t cost anything, and it might just be the kindest thing you do for yourself this month!
Posted: 10/09/2025
Related Category: Holistic Wellbeing
