Lent is just around the corner! Some give up chocolate, others meat. How about a special challenge this year? A digital detox! Sounds radical? Don't worry, we're not talking about a month-long stay in a mountain hut without WiFi (although that would be an interesting experience). No, we're talking about small, feasible steps for more balance in everyday digital life.
Why digital detox?
Our smartphone has become like a pet: it is petted, fed (with new apps) and accompanies us everywhere - even into the bathroom (no rating here). But while a dog forces you out into the fresh air, your smartphone is often glued to your hand and constantly distracting you. Studies show that excessive use of digital devices overloads the brain, impairs concentration and can have a negative impact on sleep quality. In other words: We spend a lot of time online, but are rarely truly present while doing so - which can cause us to feel exhausted more quickly, be less productive and even cause interpersonal relationships to suffer.
Lent as an experiment
Lent is a wonderful opportunity to consciously question our digital habits and possibly establish new, healthier routines. Don't worry, you don't have to become a digital hermit - even small changes can have a big impact. Those who embrace it can experience more inner peace, increased productivity and more intensive social contacts.
Here are a few simple but effective ideas:
- Cell phone-free zones: For example, at the dining table or in the bedroom. Your brain (and your partner) will thank you for it.
- Social media diet: Instead of scrolling endlessly, set yourself a daily time limit - or try to go one day a week completely without social media.
- Email fasting: Try to check your emails only at set times instead of replying to every new message immediately.
- Analog becomes cool again:Read a real book, write a postcard or enjoy a conversation without distractions.
- Digital evening: consciously put your cell phone aside after a certain time to make your evening more relaxed and sleep better.
- Conscious surfing: Instead of aimlessly clicking through the Internet, define clear goals for your online time - this saves time and nerves.
- Technology-free morning routine: start the day without looking directly at your cell phone - perhaps with a cup of coffee, a walk or a short meditation.
Gains through renunciation
A digital detox is not a ban, but an invitation to self-determination. You will notice: Your head will clear, conversations will be more intense and you may even discover that boredom is a valuable source of creativity. More time for yourself, more genuine encounters and a more conscious awareness of your surroundings - these are all possible benefits of this experiment. Because let's be honest: when was the last time you had the pleasure of simply looking out of the window and daydreaming?
So, who's taking part? 40 days of more conscious use of digital media - this could be your most exciting fasting experiment yet! Challenge accepted?
Please feel free to write to us about your experiences - but not immediately via WhatsApp 😉.
Best wishes and an inspiring Lent!
Your EAP team
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