Isn’t it wild how social media connects us, yet can also consume us?

Let’s face it—putting social media in a full off-the-grid mode is like squaring the circle. If you come to think of it, our phones have practically become our “best friend” figure, keeping us engaged and entertained at any time of the day. However, with the constant barrage of notifications, anyone can fall into the black hole of productivity loss and mental mayhem.

Scrolling through social media sure is not a crime. But slipping into the habits of doom scrolling and waking up to your phone buzzing can take a toll on your overall well-being. Now, you might wanna take this as a sign to hit the brakes and go on a digital diet!

Here are ten practical tips to start your social media cleanse:

Limit app time, lest they take over!

You may find quitting social media abruptly a tough row to hoe, so it’s best to start off by establishing a specific time for its use. Limit yourself to 30-minute bursts, and use the rest of the time to engage in offline activities. Think of it as a mini digital detox snack—moderation is key.

Set up a social media sieve

A simple curating of your feed cures! Unfollow accounts that detract from your sense of self-worth and instead follow those that motivate you to become a more productive, fulfilled, and content individual. Cultivate a feed that nurtures positivity rather than harbors negativity.

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Use apps to outsmart your smart device

Tech’s a way to curb tech obsession. Utilize tools like Screen Time for iOS and Digital Wellbeing for Android, as well as install apps like Digital Detox, Moment, or Forest which offer features to track your screen time, restrict access to distracting apps, and promote mindfulness exercises.

Schedule a digital downtime

In the run of your social media detox, it is ideal to create structure in your digital hiatus. Set boundaries such as refraining from social media at least one hour before bedtime. Late-night scrolling through social media can throw your snooze schedule off track, resulting in poor-quality rest. Take note that the blue light emitted by screens can disrupt your circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep.

Screen-free morning routine

The first hour of your day sets the tone for how productive you will be. So, ditch social media for at least an hour to get started on the right foot. Better to use an alarm clock and not your phone. Once you begin tapping into social media or reading emails, you may fall into the trap of procrastination. Instead, create a morning ritual that kicks off with a workout or meditation, leaving you in a state of calm.

Journal like it’s 1999

Grab a pen and notebook and keep the words flowing! Nothing compares to handwriting down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences–it’s like a secret garden, a private getaway from the social media hustle. The art of journaling does a lot of wonders as it allows you to unload mental burdens and be emotionally vulnerable without having to care about being judged. Go try it, you’ll thank me later!

Revitalize by doing physical activities

Scroll out of the screen and take a real-life stroll. Take a hike, walk in the park, or join a sports team. Engaging in any physical or outdoor activities boosts endorphins, alleviates stress, and improves your overall health. This is a smart move to distract yourself from social media and not to die of boredom.

Engage in real conversations

Remember, you disconnect to connect! Make an effort to engage more with people in person. Plan outings, attend dinner parties, or simply spend more time with your family and friends. More often than we realize, face-to-face interactions are way more fulfilling and meaningful than digital ones. It’s all about that personal touch, where your conversations will zoom past the usual “LOL” exchanges and the typical “seen” without a reply encounters.

Doing Nothing is Doing Something

Doing nothing—simply sitting quietly, daydreaming, or enjoying the moment—allows your mind to unwind and recover from the overstimulation of social media. These regular breaks can become something you look forward to, providing a refreshing contrast to your digital routine. Give your brain a high-five for the breather!

Get Into Your Recreational Ventures

Think of your favorite pastime! Reading, singing, cooking, gardening, painting, or whatever it is that strikes your interest, have a go at it. Make the most of your detox days by cultivating your old, or even new hobbies. As you immerse yourself in your craft, you develop a deeper focus and learn to appreciate the slow, deliberate process of creation. Engaging in a craft can serve as a form of therapy, providing an outlet for self-expression and emotional release. It's like a mood booster, a self-esteem rocket, and a purpose party all rolled into one!

Text by Leigh Sofia Lazo

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