A Perfect Detox Day (An Easy Guide)

By Stepy Kamei

Let's face it: Life is pretty stressful these days. From a constantly changing news cycle, to all the adjustments that come with having to work from home, there's a lot we all need to process right now. In many ways, we've become more reliant on our technological devices and social media platforms than ever before. While this can provide us with a sense of help and security, it's important to keep in mind the ways in which being too plugged in for too long can actually be damaging to our physical and mental well-being. Now is as good a time as any to consider trying out a mini digital detox for yourself. For just one day, unplug from your devices and social media, and see how your health may benefit as a result! Keep on reading to pick up some easy advice on how to successfully navigate a digital detox day.

Detoxing the Easy and Responsible Way 

It can sound both exciting and nerve-wracking to spend a day away from your devices. It's crucial to make sure you fill your day with other healthy and mindful activities, so you ideally don't even miss social media. Keep in mind that, if you need to keep your phone nearby for work or to check on a loved one, that's OK! You can modify your detox day so that it realistically works for you.

Scheduling Your Day

When you wake up, you may instinctively reach for your phone in order to check your emails and messages. For this one day, spend those five minutes instead doing a mindful activity -- practice a guided meditation, do some light stretches, or brew a cup of tea or coffee. Then, if it's truly necessary to check your phone, do so at this time.

Begin your morning routine by preparing a wholesome, nutritious breakfast. You can read a book while you eat, or use the time instead to mindfully and slowly eat so you can really experience the tastes and smells of the meal. As you move through the rest of the morning, take the time to be present and focused on only the present moment.

Throughout the afternoon, rather than looking to your devices for distraction or entertainment, find other ways to pass the time in a healthy manner. Read a book, go for a walk, spend time with a pet or a loved one, or practice yoga or cardio exercise. Prepare a protein-rich lunch to make sure you have enough energy to continue through the day.

Finally, during the evening, consider this the perfect opportunity to catch up on a project you've been putting off. Or, connect with an old friend (you can do this via social media if you aren't able to see them in person; just be sure to avoid scrolling Facebook as well). As you close the day and begin your nighttime routine, take some time to reflect on how the day went. You can write about your experience in a journal to further explore your thoughts. Was it challenging, or easier than you thought it would be? Did you notice a greater sense of connection to yourself, or to anyone you share your household with?

Reflect on the lessons of the day, and be sure to keep them in mind going forward, so you can find a healthy balance between spending time online and in the real world.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Richardson, Tex.