Ideas for Celebrating the National Day of Unplugging
Things To Do on National Day of Unplugging
The National Day of Unplugging presents a golden opportunity to disconnect from digital devices and reconnect with real life. It's a day to rest, reflect, and recharge, offering a much-needed respite from the relentless pace of modern life.
Here, we'll explore a range of activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness, guiding you towards a fulfilling and balanced unplugged day.
What is the National Day of Unplugging
National Day of Unplugging is a global event dedicated to taking a break from technology and spending time connecting with the people and the world around. It takes place on the first Friday of March every year, lasting for 24 hours.
It all began in 2009, with a partnership with the Jewish arts and cultural non-profit Reboot and the Sabbath Manifesto. The event is based on the Jewish tradition of observing Shabbat, a weekly day of rest observed from sunset on Friday evening to sundown on Saturday. This encourages people to refrain from work and instead engage in activities that promote rest, reflection, and connection with family and community.
However, you do not have to be Jewish or religious to participate. National Day of Unplugging has grown in popularity over the years, with people all over the world taking a break from their electronic devices for a day so they could take a break and relax with family, friends, or alone.
This year, 2024, National or Global Day of Unplugging falls on March 1. If you are looking for reasons to participate, here is relevant information on why you need to unplug.
Why We Need to Unplug
Improve physical health
Excessive use of technology can lead to physical problems like dry eyes for staring at screens for a long period of time, poor posture for slouching over mobile phones and computer screens, and poor sleep quality, as blue light emitted from screens can disrupt the body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
Unplugging for a day has many benefits for your body: you get to take a break from technology's negative effects, allowing you to engage in activities that promote physical well-being, such as going for a walk or spending time outdoors.
Boost mental health
Constant technology use has been linked to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Unplugging gives us the opportunity to disconnect from the constant notifications, comparisons on social media, and the pressure to always be available or connected.
Taking a break from digital devices lets us focus on self-care activities that promote relaxation and improve our mental well-being.
Enjoy the great outdoors
One of the greatest things we miss when we are constantly glued to our devices is the opportunity to go outside and explore. A mobile phone might connect us to the world, but it also disconnects us from the natural world around us.
Unplugging for a day gives us the chance to appreciate nature and go to different places without any distractions. You can take a hike, go to the beach, or simply sit outside and soak up some sunshine.
Form meaningful social connections
Living in a digital world often means that our social interactions are mediated through screens. Unplugging allows us to form real connections, to truly engage with others in a meaningful way.
Use this day to spend time with friends and family, take a walk together, or enjoy a meal without the interruption of notifications. These shared experiences foster a sense of belonging, reinforcing the bonds that tie people together.
Reconnect with yourself
Believe it or not, 'unplug collaborative' sessions can be a game-changer. Regularly dedicating time to step away from screen time lets you create space for self-reflection, personal growth, and heightened awareness.
Unplugging reduces stress and boosts our self-esteem, allowing us to be present in the moment and form better relationships with ourselves and others.
How To Participate in National Day of Unplugging
Let people know you're participating
Inform your friends, family, and colleagues that you will be participating in the National Day of Unplugging so they know why you'll be unresponsive that day.
You can also encourage people in your circle to join you in this digital detox. This collective action can make the experience more rewarding and impactful!
Prepare automated responses for your mailbox
Set up automated responses for your email and other devices, indicating that you're observing the National Day of Unplugging. It will let people know you're not available, and to contact you after the designated time period.
Turn off your devices
After informing others and setting up automated responses, the last step is easy. Simply switch off all your devices. This includes your smartphone, tablet, computer, smartwatch, and any other electronic devices that usually demand your attention.
Reflect at the end of the day
As your unplugged day comes to an end, don't forget to reflect on how the experience made you feel. Did you find it difficult? What were the benefits of disconnecting for a day? How can you incorporate more unplugged time into your daily routine?
This reflection will help you to truly understand the impact of this day and make changes for a more balanced and mindful life.
Activities To Do on National Day of Unplugging
Go outside!
- Visit a favorite person - visit someone you haven't kept in touch with for a long time, or someone who needs your presence
- Go to the beach, lake or park - take a day off to enjoy the great outdoors!
- Have a picnic or hike - pack some snacks and explore a new trail or park in your area, or have a peaceful picnic in a scenic location
- Attend a local event or festival - check out what's happening in your city or town and participate in festivals, concerts, etc.
Connect with your loved ones
- Have meaningful conversations without distractions - catch up with friends or family in person, without the constant interruption of notifications and devices
- Plan a game night or do an activity together - spend quality time with loved ones by playing games, doing puzzles or engaging in other fun activities together
Engage in mindful activities
- Practice yoga or meditation - take this opportunity to exercise, or calm your mind and body through yoga or meditation
- Read a book, journal, or listen to music - unplug by engaging in activities that don't require a screen, such as reading, writing, or listening to music
- Do your hobbies - this day is the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your hobbies and passions, ones you might not have time for during a busy work week
Try something new
- Learn a new hobby or skill - use this day to learn something new! you can visit an art workshop or cooking class, or learn a new sport or outdoor activity
- Explore your city and try new activities - take a day to be a tourist in your own city and try out new activities or food spots you've never been to before
- Go somewhere you've been wanting to go - use this day to finally visit that museum, park or landmark that you've been meaning to go to!
Volunteer or give back to your community
- Donate items, money, or time to a charity - use this day to give back to those in need by donating or giving items and money to charities or volunteering your time to help others in your community.
- Join a community project - participate in a group volunteer activity. If there's one for the celebration of National Day of Unplugging, you can join in on that and give out gift boxes filled with items that people can use to participate in National Day of Unplugging.
Unplug on National Day of Unplugging, and Unplug More Often
Participating in National Day of Unplugging is a great way to start incorporating more unplugged time into your life, but don't let it end there. Make a conscious effort to unplug regularly and find a balance between technology and real-life experiences.
By unplugging, you will improve your mental and emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and live a more mindful and present life.
So mark your calendar for the National Day of Unplugging and make time to unplug throughout the year! Don't forget to spread the word about this important day and encourage others to join in on the movement towards a healthier relationship with technology.
Happy unplugging from Shadow Breeze!
Find more inspiration for gifts in our recent blog entries: