It started with a simple scroll...
I was sitting on my back porch one Saturday morning, tea in hand, the birds singing in that way they do when you're lucky enough to stop and listen. I had planned to journal and spend a few peaceful moments connecting inward before my day began.
But before I even opened my notebook, I reached for my phone—just to “check something quickly.” Thirty-five minutes later, I had no idea what I even set out to check. I’d gone down the rabbit hole of texts, social media, emails, and news alerts. I looked up, and the birds had stopped singing—or maybe I’d just stopped hearing them.
That moment was a wake-up call.
The Hidden Toll of Digital Overload
We live in an age of constant connection, where every ping, ding, and scroll demands our attention. While technology brings amazing convenience, it also quietly erodes our peace.
Studies show that excessive screen time can increase anxiety, disturb sleep, and reduce our capacity to be present with ourselves and others. It’s no wonder so many of us feel perpetually distracted and mentally exhausted.
What Is a Digital Detox?
A digital detox is the intentional act of taking a break from digital devices—especially social media, smartphones, and computers—to reduce stress, increase presence, and reconnect with what really matters.
This doesn’t mean you have to go live in the woods or throw your phone in a lake. It’s about mindful boundaries and small shifts that can help you reclaim balance.
How a Digital Detox Can Help You Feel More Calm & Centered
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Improved mental clarity and focus
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Deeper sleep and rest
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More meaningful conversations and connection
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Reduced anxiety and FOMO (fear of missing out)
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Increased creativity and personal insight
Simple Steps to Try a Digital Detox This Week
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Start with One Tech-Free Hour a Day
Choose an hour when you’re typically online (like after dinner) and make it screen-free. Read, take a walk, stretch, or journal instead. -
Create a Tech-Free Morning or Evening Routine
Don’t start or end your day with a screen. Give your nervous system space to reset. -
Turn Off Non-Essential Notifications
Most alerts can wait. Reclaim your focus by silencing the digital noise. -
Designate a Tech-Free Zone
Make your bedroom, dining area, or porch a phone-free zone for more mindful connection. -
Take a Nature Break Instead of a Scroll Break
Go outside, feel the sun, breathe deeply, and reconnect to the moment.
What You Might Discover
When I started unplugging for even short stretches, something surprising happened. I felt more me. I was calmer, more inspired, and better able to hear my own inner voice.
Sometimes, we don't realize how much energy digital input steals until we stop letting it in.
Try This Journal Prompt
“When do I feel most present and peaceful? What changes can I make to protect those moments?”
Write about this after a short digital detox—you may be surprised by what you uncover.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to disappear offline forever to feel calm again. Just a few mindful boundaries can help you reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the simple joys of daily life.
It’s not about restriction—it’s about reclamation.
Here’s to less scrolling… and more living. It's well worth it!
Be well,
Mary-Anne
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