4 Reasons to UNPLUG

Unplugging from technology is scary.

My mobile and my computer are extensions of my hands.

My Sleep App on my mobile wakes me. After my morning lemon hot water, I use my Meditation App. If I go for a run on my own, I listen to a Podcast. If it’s a good podcast, I continue listening while I get dressed. Otherwise I listen to music on my mobile. (I NEVER listen to the news at the start of the day. I rather catch up sometime during the day, with a few ‘selected’ news articles).

I’m on my computer for most of the day (if I’m not facilitating / keynote speaking). These days my hubbie and I are ‘glued’ to FAUDA on Netflix. Not good for spiking cortisol levels at the end of the day!

This is a typical week day. But, on the weekends, I also find myself reading, scrolling and researching for hours on my computer, and sometimes even working and presenting off my computer.

This Sunday, however, I’ll  be UNPLUGGING for 24 hours. Phew!
I said it out loud, I typed it, and I am going to commit to this Sunday (& hopefully many more this year).

There are the well-researched benefits:

1. Less stress:
Too much information can be stressful. From Podcasts, to News, to Newsletters, to the Social Media channels. I do, at times feel bombarded.

2. More control of your time.
I used to be a single mum, and even while facilitating a workshop I felt an overwhelming urge to check my mobile. This seems to have continued over the last decade. I am a quick responder to text messages.  On average, Americans check their smartphones 96 times a day and spend more than two hours on social media. I heard another ‘generic’ USA statistic this morning on a Podcast: Americans are spending, on average, 5 hours a day watching TV.

3. Sharper focus
This is the KEY benefit that I want to harness. I want to really ‘soak in’ NATURE this Sunday. Luckily I will be in Cape Town, and hopefully on the beach with my grandkids.

During the week, I have re-committed to UNPLUGGING for 90 mins at a time. I’ll be switching off pop-up notifications (including emails) and doing ‘deep dive’ work in 90 min ultradian rhythms: about 2 to 3 times per day. I want my brain to concentrate for longer times periods of time on ONE TASK / PROJECT.

4. Some people need this benefit : better social interactions. As a family, we don’t have our mobiles, or TV on during dinner, or when we are with mates. I do however notice at restaurants how many family members have their noses buried in their phones.

Challenge yourself to a 24 hour digital detox this weekend. It is a great way to find out if technology is holding you back from living your best life.

The benefits can be far reaching, from being more creative on the weekends, to deepening your relationships with family and friends.
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#Digitaldetox #Selfcare #BounceFORWARD #Selfcontrol #Lifebalance

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