Why You Need a Digital Detox

Morning ☕️

This is the mindful minute - your mental health cheat sheet.

The newsletter that doesn’t ask "are you free for a quick call at 4:15pm"

What you'll learn in < 60 seconds today 👇

  • How technology use affects our mental health

  • Benefits of a digital detox and why you should try it

  • Upcoming group sessions you won't want to miss

💡Resources we love this week

Why you need a digital detox

​It's no secret that as a society we've become dependent on our phones.

The average adult spends around 11 hours each day listening to, watching, reading, or interacting with media.

Think about the last time you were anywhere alone-at the doctor's office, standing in line at the grocery store or waiting for your friend at a table in a restaurant.

How much of that time was spent glued to your phone?

The answer is probably a lot.

But, how is the use of technology affecting our mental health?

And what can we do to offset that dependency?

What the research says

Prolonged smartphone use is related to higher depression rates, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and also musculoskeletal problems.

Overexposure to heavy news and social media can take a toll on your mental health.

It has even been linked to lower work productivity and engagement.

Going device-free can be uncomfortable and stressful at times.

You might feel annoyed, anxious, and even bored without your mobile phone and other tech tools.

BUT, research shows a clear link between digital detoxes and improved mental health.

Ready to try a digital detox?

Here's what you need to know.

What is a digital detox?

The idea of a digital detox is to disconnect from the online world to focus more on the present moment without distractions.

Adigital detoxis when youcompletely abstainorintentionally reduceyour timeusingelectronic deviceslike smartphones, computers, TVs and tablets.

The best way to know you need a digital detox is to check in with yourself and see how interacting with social media and technology makes you feel.

BUT, before you decide if it is right for you, consider these benefits:

  • Reduced anxiety and depression​

  • Enhanced focus and increased productivity​

  • Improved sleep​

  • Meaningful connections in real life​

  • More time for things that bring you joy​

How to Do a Digital Detox

If you're ready for a digital detox challenge but aren't sure where to start, we got you.

  1. Set realistic goals - If you need your devices during the day for your job, try doing a mini-detox at the end of the workday.

  2. Create healthy boundaries and limits - Sometimes disconnecting completely isn't possible, but we can limit use while eating, working out & spending time with others.

  3. Fill the time with things that nourish your mind and body - like journaling, going for a walk or reading.

  4. Remove Distractions - turn off push notifications & rather set aside a specific time each day to check your messages or mentions.

  5. Reward yourself for following through - it can be as simple as cooking your favourite meal or taking yourself out to the movies.

While it may be hard, doing a digital detox can be a rewarding experience that will help you better understand your relationship with your devices and be more present and mindful in your other activities and experiences.​​

😂 MOW (Meme of the week)​

🤏 A Tiny Thought 

"Your attitude will determine your altitude."

4 Signs of Impressively High Mental Strength​

  1. You believe in tough-self love, not comfortable self-love.​

  2. You are an unbroken optimist, no matter how shitty the situation might get.​

  3. You get back up stronger when life trips you down.​

  4. You lowkey like your disadvantages because you see them as opportunities not excuses.

🗳 Post of the week​

That's a wrap for today. Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading today! If you loved it, tell your friends.

Share The Mindful Minute

You currently have 0 referrals, only 1 away from receiving free mental health credits

Got any insightful resources or general feedback? Hit reply and share with us.

If you didn’t enjoy the email you can unsubscribe here.

Sent with ❤️ from Ollie Health®, Cape Town, 8005