Unplug, sometimes a digital detox is necessary
With no screens to distract us, we can reconnect with ourselves, engage fully with the present moment and focus on what truly matters.
Picture: iStock
In an age where constant connectivity is the norm, unplugging has become a rare luxury.
We live in a world where notifications never stop and social media feeds seem endless, pulling us into an exhausting cycle of digital engagement.
How do we escape from the digital drama when all we do revolves around our cellphones and laptops?
Oh, the panic when we forgot a phone at home or at the office. And the frowns when a sent message or e-mail is not replied to immediately, not to mention the instant feelings of dread that follow.
ALSO READ: World Mental Health Day: The role of phones in supporting mental health
Why do we allow such tools to complicate our lives? When will we take the necessary steps to reclaim our mental space and well-being?
When load shedding was still a daily given, people rushed to stores to buy battery packs. And not just one, because what if that one goes flat and the electricity is still not back by the time the device dies?
Panic stations. Drama. Stress.
And did the world end when your devices died for a few hours? No, it did not.
Is now not the perfect time? Unplug. I dare you! Even in small doses.
It allows us to step away from the barrage of information and the pressure to constantly respond, post, or react.
We do not realise that excessive screen time can lead to increased stress, anxiety and even sleep disturbances.
It’s not just about the time spent online – it’s the psychological toll of always being “on”.
By taking a digital detox, we can reduce these negative effects, creating more room for mindful experiences and face-to-face interactions that nurture deeper connections.
The idea of luxury, once associated with material wealth or indulgent experiences, is shifting.
Now, in a hyper-connected world, luxury can be as simple as having the time to be present without the distractions of our devices.
ALSO READ: 61% of South Africans ready to quit over work stress and lack of support
Whether it’s spending a weekend without your cellphone or scheduling daily screen-free hours, the practice of disconnecting offers a break from the noise and gives us back control over our time.
The most striking benefit of a digital detox is the clarity it provides. With no screens to distract us, we can reconnect with ourselves, engage fully with the present moment and focus on what truly matters.
It’s a chance to recharge mentally and emotionally, something that is increasingly hard to find in our always-on culture.
In a world obsessed with productivity and engagement, the real luxury might just be the ability to unplug, slow down, and exist without the constant pull of the digital world.
ALSO READ: The power of a simple scent
For more news your way
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.