Digital detox: Practical methods to reclaim your analogue soul

It is 2023 and remote work or work from home has become a part of almost all jobs. While the widespread network and strong Wi-Fi have their perks, it also means that the incessant beeping of emails, notifications, and messages follow you everywhere you go. At times when all of it feels a little too much, some motivational videos will tell you to turn off your devices and go out of network for a few days.

Unfortunately. that is not always in the cards for us. So here are some practical ways of momentary escapes from the screen landscape without unplugging completely.

No Push from Notifications

This method is fairly simple.

You do not have to or even want to, be notified every time someone posts a photo or adds to their 'story' on social media. However, the push notifications beep often trigger the need to check your phone, thereby delaying important tasks and ultimately taking precious hours away from your relaxation time.

If you find yourself being pushed around by notifications like this, it is time to take control. Pull up your social media and calmly turn off notifications from any account that does not require your immediate attention. You will actually be surprised how much time this one simple hack can save.

Filter the Contents

The Internet algorithms, complicated as they may be, follow one very obvious rule. They tend to show more of whatever you view online. So, for instance, if you have watched a 5-minute clip of a criminal investigation this morning, chances are that you will be suggested several more by the afternoon.

When your 5-minute break from study or work is spent on something so intense, it leaves you feeling more restless than relaxed. It is, therefore, important to tap that 'not interested' or 'show less' option every now and then to keep a better balance of the contents that you expose yourself to.

The Anti-social Socialising

No, this is not where you ask your friends to put their phones in a basket just so that you guys can have a good time without distractions.

Instead, spend time with people who will forget about their digital worries and diversion for the couple of hours they spend with you. Be it at your favourite restaurant or in your living room, a good conversation with great company can do wonders in decluttering your digitised mind.

Zen Space at Home

This could take a little bit of effort but is totally worth it.

Dedicate certain areas of the house as the "no device zone". It could be your balcony, dining space, the rooftop, etc. Take a short break every 2 or 3 hours and spend a few minutes in these areas.

Scheduling your day this way will not only allow you to take breaks but also help control the feeling of urgency every time you are away from your phone.

The Forgotten Weekends

No matter how demanding your work is you need a day, a solid 24 hours, away from it every now and then. Clear your mind and spend the day in any way you want. This will help you relax while also speeding up your progress when you go back to work with an unburdened mind.

As we have already established, digital detox does not necessarily mean you live like the Stone Age for a day. Instead, you do whatever puts a smile on your face.  Cook a new recipe, go play your favourite songs, or binge your favourite show!

As long as you are feeling relaxed, consider the mission accomplished!