How to use Unplugging as a form of Self Care

Unplugging has different definitions to different people. One thing that should be added to their definitions is that it serves as a form of self care. 

Unplugging= self care

What does unplugging mean?

For this post, let’s determine a working definition for unplugging. Unplugging for the purpose of this post is relating directly to taking time away from electronic devices to include phone, television, computer, gaming devices. 

Unplugging has become an even greater challenge since so many of us are currently virtual. So let’s discuss unplugging for everything except work related activities. Like unplugging after work and not doing anything personal during work related computer activities. Like reclaiming your weekends for no electronic or screen time and making it family time!

Why is it important to unplug?

There are numerous reasons to take a break from screens for prolonged periods throughout your day. Or even take a break for days at a time.

Remaining present and engaged with the people who are with you is important. Those reasons should be optimal at why you would seek to unplug. 

But there are even more:

• Improved sleep-wake cycle- what mom does not want better sleep. Be honest. When people ask you what has been the toughest things about making that transition into full blown motherhood, I know one of your top answers is the lack of sleep. So why keep doing an activity that actually affects your quality of sleep when you do get it? Unplugging can result in improved ability for your body to calm quicker and get into the beneficial, rebuilding part of sleep faster. Providing you with greater sleep benefit even if you are not getting those coveted 9 hours.
• Decreased eye strain and other strain related issues- We have to be ready to do all our daily tasks every day. Most of the time without a break. Using electronic devices for prolonged periods can result in strain of eyes and other muscles. This affects your ability to perform other tasks.
• More family time- Without always checking your phone or binging those Netflix shows, you can spend more focused time with the individuals who matter the most. Yes, you want to post those new recipes and send that text about your next girls night, but it can wait a few hours. Right now, focus on family!
• Remaining focused on the task at hand- Having to engage with your device at all times creates a distracted mindset that does not result in optimal creativity or ability to process information. Let go of the screen and allow your imagination to develop new ideas that might even surprise you.

What are some ways you can unplug and stick with it?

• Have a friend or your husband join in the unplugging- Having that extra support is always helpful. Ask someone you trust or your mentor to unplug with you. When you get the urge to turn to a screen, actually place a phone call and have a conversation about what else you can do with your time besides looking at a screen.
• Begin with shorter durations- Try to unplug for a few hours at a time. And be honest with yourself. This means no checking your phone for email alerts or seeking the weather on the weather app. Try from 9am to 12 noon or 3pm to 6pm at first. Give yourself a few hours to gain some success and momentum. Then you can continue to add time. You will be surprised at what you gain as you let go!
• Decide on a self care task to do during that time- Now you have time to fill. So fill it with something of value to you. Make the time you have worthwhile and get a benefit out of being screen less.
• Plan a family activity during that time- Making family memories is wonderful. You will return to the screens so you will need something to put in that Facebook status. What better than sharing something about the quality time you had with your family?

Resources about unplugging

8 Reasons Why You Should Unplug One Day A Week– article in Forbes about the importance of unplugging

Taking a Technology Break Can Help Your Health– find some health benefits about unplugging here

Five Reasons to Take a Break from Screens– importance of unplugging

How Smartphones Hijack Our Minds– article in Wall Street Journal about the intellectual cost of continued screen time

Unplugging is selfcare

Based on this post, you can see how unplugging relates directly to your self care. This is another way to remind yourself that you are worthy! You don’t have to rely on technology for happiness or to regulate your mood. You are enough without it!

Social media is great for information and staying in touch with family and friends. It can also serve as an ultimate source of comparisons in every area of our lives. Having bouts of unplugging can help you gain control of this and place the focus on yourself versus on others

Need another self care idea? Check out this post on using journaling as a form of self care.

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Comment below on ways you plan to unplug. Let’s encourage each other. I know it may be odd for me, a person who posts on an electronic device, to be speaking to unplugging; however I practice this as well. I use the weekends to really unplug and focus on family.

Find Your Flourish !

Remember to be you, be focused, be well!

|Shanna|

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