Unplug & recharge | A digital sabbatical
Summer is just around the corner; a great time to escape the constant stream of digital stimuli. In our modern world, we're constantly connected to our digital devices, rarely allowing ourselves to truly unwind and relax. This summer, we encourage you to take a step back with a digital sabbatical. To slow down and consciously enjoy the summer without all the digital distractions. In this blog, we'll share the benefits of a digital sabbatical and provide a step-by-step guide. This way, you can experience the benefits of a relaxed summer!
Why take a digital sabbatical?
In our current society, digital devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops have become indispensable. While technology helps us in many ways, the abundance of information can also be overwhelming and disrupt our balance. A digital sabbatical can give you the space to regain that balance. The summer season is the perfect time for it, since you are spending most of the time outside already. This might make you less inclined to constantly reach for your phone while lounging on the couch. Additionally, a digital sabbatical offers various advantages across different aspects of life:
Enhanced focus and concentration
The constant stream of notifications, messages, and alerts disrupts our focus and diminishes our productivity. It's like you're constantly multitasking. By distancing yourself from your phone and the endless flow of notifications and information, you give yourself the opportunity to improve your focus and concentration. Ultimately, this can lead to increased effectiveness and more efficient work.
Improved sleep
The blue light emitted by screens can affect the quality of your sleep. By avoiding your phone and TV in the evening, you allow your body to relax and prepare for a good night's sleep. 
More time for physical health
Reducing screen time means more time for movement, exercise, and enjoying physical activities. This can contribute to better physical health, more energy, and improved well-being.
More attentive to your surroundings
By reducing digital distractions, you allow yourself to pay more attention to the people around you. It helps you create deeper and more meaningful connections, so you can truly be present in the moments you share with others.
Space for creativity
Disconnecting from digital stimuli provides room for your creative mind to flourish. You'll notice that you have more space for new ideas, inspiration, and self-expression.
How to take a digital sabbatical
Now that you know the benefits of a digital sabbatical, it's time to consider a plan that suits you. Everyone has their own routines, so it's important to consider what makes you happy. A digital sabbatical can last as long as you want. You can incorporate it into your daily routine by limiting your screen time for a few hours. Or you could decide to go off the grid for a week, focusing on yourself, nature, and the people around you. To help you, here are some guidelines that provide clarity on how to approach your digital sabbatical:
Define your "Why": Determine what you want to achieve with your digital detox. Do you want to reduce screen time, delete specific apps, or perhaps take a complete break from all your digital devices? Write down your goals and keep them in mind throughout the process.
Become aware of your digital activity: Knowing how much time you currently spend on digital devices and which activities distract you the most can be very helpful. Keep a journal or use apps to track your screen time. This might be confronting, but it's better to gain insights into your digital habits so you can identify areas where you want to make changes.
Set boundaries and make agreements: Communicate your intentions to the people around you. Explain that you're taking a digital sabbatical. Make agreements with yourself about when and how long you'll have access to digital devices. For example, establish a device-free period before bedtime and set a maximum amount of time you can spend on specific apps.
Perform a digital clean-up: Go through your digital devices and remove apps you don't need or that distract you. Organise your files, photos, and emails to bring more order to your digital life. Minimise the amount of digital clutter you encounter daily. 
Plan alternative activities: Fill the time you would normally spend on screens with other activities. Consider reading, spending time outdoors, picking up hobbies, meditating, or spending time with friends and family. Summer is made for outdoor activities. Take it slow and discover new ways to enjoy life, free from digital stimuli.
Embrace the joy of doing nothing: Initially, it might be challenging to detach yourself from digital distractions, but once you embrace slow living, it can be delightful to focus on inner peace and reflection. This is a valuable skill that allows you to live more in the present and find your inner balance.
Embrace the feeling of slowing down
A digital sabbatical is the perfect preparation for a balanced summer. It allows you to escape the constant pressure of technology and focus on what truly matters. It gives you the freedom to enjoy the simple things in life. Think of spending time in nature, relaxing with friends, family, and giving yourself the space to recharge in a way that suits you. Let this summer be a time when you allow yourself to slow down, recover, and find balance. Give yourself the opportunity to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. With a digital sabbatical, you might just discover a better balance and a newfound appreciation for the here and now.
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