If there’s one time of year to try detoxing from screens and social networks, it’s the summer vacation. For many people, however, putting down their smartphone remains a difficult task. Here are a few simple things you can try to help you spend less time on your smartphone this summer.
Spending your vacation without screens can be really tricky when you’re glued to them the rest of the year. But the summer break is the perfect time to step back and think about something other than notifications, likes and emails.
The easiest way to do this is to start by putting your phone on airplane mode when you don’t need to go online or be contacted, and deactivating all your notifications the rest of the time. You can also choose to allow them only between certain hours. To do this, go to “Do Not Disturb” on Android or “Focus” on your iPhone.
To manage access to your applications, Android has a feature called “Digital Wellbeing” (the name may differ depending on your device manufacturer and interface overlay), which lets you manage your screen time and use of each individual app. Here, you’ll see your usage statistics for each of your various applications, but also, and above all, you’ll be able to set usage time limits for each of them. The same applies to iOS, with the “Screen Time” option.
Next, instead of systematically resorting to scrolling on your phone, try to find alternative ways to entertain yourself, such as reading, playing board games or taking a short walk. In the morning, use a traditional alarm clock to wake you up, rather than having your smartphone in your hand as soon as you start the day. For those who really want to reset, don’t hesitate to meditate or do yoga to help reduce your stress levels. Encourage each other as a family not to overuse screens, for example, by banning them at mealtimes or during fun family activities.
Finally, whatever the time of day, it’s a good idea to keep your phone away from you as much as possible. This will enable you to bypass certain notifications, or simply resist the urge to check your smartphone all the time by just reaching out your arm or grabbing it from your pocket. – AFP Relaxnews
