The benefits of a digital detox and how to have one

Too much screen time is never a good thing. Here’s a few tips on switching off from the digital world every now and again.

When you hear the word detox, what springs to mind? Probably anything related to cutting things out of your diet that will benefit your body. Too much booze? Easy, scale back or cut out the cocktails and beer. Gone a bit mad with Ubereats lately? Switching from pizza to a salad is easy (well, not that easy).

But what about when you’ve been overdoing it with screen time and technology? Enter the digital detox. Putting away those addictive little devices can result in a range of benefits, such as feeling less stressed and getting better sleep. But what exactly is a digital detox? And how do you go about doing one? We’ve got you covered.

What is a digital detox and why should you have one?

A digital detox – or a technology diet – is when you refrain from using smartphones, computers, televisions, tablets and the like for a period of time. Abstaining from these technology devices prevents us from the overuse of the internet, checking emails and social media, streaming and all those other things that are fine in moderation.

Many benefits result from undertaking a tech detox. Here are just a few of them.

1. You’ll be less distracted

Taking a break from using your digital devices can be a great way to focus on real-life social interactions. Remember those? COVID-safe ones, of course. Without the constant distraction of emails, notifications and the overall temptation to doomscroll, you’ll probably find yourself less distracted, able to focus and enjoy everyday life.

2. You’ll have a better work/life balance

With fewer distractions comes a better work/life balance. When you’re always digitally connected, it can be tricky to create those all-important boundaries between your home and work life, often leading to burn out. Yes, there are benefits to the rise of work/life blend, but it’s still important to take time out. Without the constant need to be plugged in, you’ll soon notice you’re feeling calmer. Ahhh...

3. You could be less stressed

As much as we’d hate to admit it, most of us are technology addicts. Ok, there are worse things to be hooked on – but that’s not to downplay the impact too much tech can have on our mental health. This study highlights how technology and media usage affects stress (cortisol) and inflammation. Detox tech to help you regulate your stress levels – you might even find it hard to go back to it!

4. You could get better sleep

Just like another addictive vice many of us start the day with, too much tech can keep us up at night – especially when used just before bed. Not only can too much technology and screen time interfere with the quantity of our sleep, but with its quality, too. This study found that 70% of participants checked social media on their phones while in bed. Put that phone away and you’ll be catching better Zzz’s in no time!

5. You’ll get less FOMO

This is one most people can relate to, regardless of their stage of life. FOMO (fear of missing out) is basically what it says on the tin – the fear that you’re missing out on experiences that everyone else seems to be having. Whether it’s partying or travelling (not such a biggie in the 2020s so far) or milestones such as getting married, having kids or buying a house, social media can cause serious FOMO. The solution? Put away those screens.

6. You’ll get less screen time

In our digital modern world, we’re all guilty of getting too much screen time – but how much do you know about its negative side effects? From physical strain to your eyes and body to sleep deprivation and weight gain, the list goes on and on. By cutting back on your screen time each day, you’ll soon notice you feel and look better. Remember, like most good things in life, balance is best!

How to have a digital detox

So, now you know what a tech detox is and why it’s essential. But how exactly do you go about doing one? Don’t worry, you don’t have to completely unplug (although for best results you should cut tech out as much as you can!).

So whether you’re wondering how to detox from Facebook or simply not have your phone feel like an extra limb, here are some top tips for going on a technology diet and having a more balanced relationship with it when you return.

1. Start small

Just like any addiction, you’ll want to wean yourself off of your favourite digital devices so it’s not too much of a shock to the system. Try deleting your social media apps from your phone (you don’t have to delete your accounts!) and setting up screen time limits with a digital detox iPhone usage tracker. Perhaps have a cut off at least an hour before you go to sleep so you can have some time to wind down and won’t be tempted to have that one last scroll.

2. Download a digital detox app

Ok, this might seem a bit contradictory, but digital detox apps can actually be super handy when you’re… well, digitally detoxing. Not only can these apps stop you from wasting too much time, but it can also track how much of your life is spent on tech. From reducing screen time to having some friendly competition with your mates, there’s bound to be an app to suit you and your plans to unplug.

3. Keep busy

Want to know the best way to cut back on something distracting? Distract yourself from it! Try focusing on other hobbies that don’t revolve around a screen. Whether it’s reading that book you’ve been meaning to get around to or heading out for a jog to get the endorphins going, keeping busy is key to keeping those urges to check your devices away.

4. Go to a digital detox retreat

If you’ve progressed from starting small or are someone who is a little extra addicted to the digital world, a digital detox camp or retreat will show you exactly how to unplug from technology. There will likely be no WiFi at a technology detox camp, and even if there is, you’ll most probably have to hand over your phone and other devices while undertaking your technology detox. Here are a few digital detox camps in Australia – extra ideal while we can’t travel overseas.

5. Don’t do it alone

Whether it’s with a spouse, a family member or a friend, cutting back or cutting out technology for a while is a great bonding experience and might even improve your relationships. You could even make it fun by taking part in an unplug from technology wellness challenge. A digital detox for kids is also a great idea, with Generation Alpha spending most of their time with their faces buried in screens. Dig out the board games and puzzles to show them what fun used to look like!

Levi Felix Digital Detox Retreat

Lastly, no piece about digital detoxing would be complete without a mention of Levi Felix. Levi Felix sparked the inspiration that built an international community around cutting back on or cutting out tech, and sadly died of a brain tumour at the age of 32.

His co-founded company, Digital Detox, has created the Levi Felix Foundation in his honour, donating annually to support brain cancer research. Find out more about Levi, the Digital Detox retreat and the Levi Felix Foundation.

Find balance with Optus Pause. With the push of a button, you can control and “press pause” almost all of your Optus mobile and home wi-fi connections from My Optus app.