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As we walk into the second month of this bright new year, you might be planning some trips or adventures for when spring finally arrives … but maybe you don’t need a vacation. Maybe you just need a digital detox.
A digital detox is not some cute Gen Z fad, like they’ve just discovered a world without the internet. A digital detox is a scientifically-studied process of removing electronic devices from one’s life in order to reap a plethora of positive health outcomes. (POPULAR POLL: Are You Cutting Back On Sugar This Year?)
“Digital detox means a person or individual stays disconnected from devices or social media for a defined duration. According to research, not using social media can have a significant impact on a person’s health and well-being,” according to a study published by the NIH. The Cleveland Clinic lists the following as examples of what one might stop using during a digital detox:
- Emails
- Video games
- Social media
- Text messages
- Smartphones and tablets
- Watching the news and television programs
Benefits Of A Digital Detox
The Cleveland Clinic notes that many people who take time to digitally detox experience sharper focus, likely due to the lack of distraction from notifications. Many people also report less stress. “I’ve worked with several people who were getting really upset from watching hours of news,” one expert told the clinic. “Once they reduced their news consumption and started doing something else, they felt calmer.” (POPULAR POLL: Are You Trying A New Diet Or Eating Plan This Year?)
People also report better social interactions in real life once they’re away from their phones. This is especially true for people who give up texting, and instead switch to making calls as their main mode of communication.
A digital detox is not for everyone, but it might give your brain a rest in a way we’ve not had since the 1990s. And you don’t have to do it for an extended period. You can take time out of your day, week, or month to detox. Some people also limit the amount of time they use their devices per day. You can choose what works best for you — and let us know how it goes!
How Do You Feel?
Take action by using your voice today. Did you know that lawmakers, business leaders, and even public servants use polling data to inform their policies and practices? These might seem like simple questions, but answering them can have far-reaching impacts on the world around you.
Don’t let your voice be lost in the ether of the Internet! Take control and take back your power today by signing up to take a poll — take all of them if you like!