Effective Tech-Free Breaks for Boosting Productivity and Relaxation

In today’s technology-driven world, committing to breaks from our devices can feel difficult. Of course, given our work and home life, a few things can be considered when taking technology breaks. Once again, it is all about what works best for you and your schedule. Therefore, planning ahead and scheduling those break periods into daily, weekly, monthly and maybe even annual time frames can be helpful. Here are some ideas to consider:

Daily: Find some time in your schedule, even if it is just for a 10-minute break, to engage in some of these tech-free, self-care activities:

• Be physically active (Try dancing to your favorite music)

• Go for a walk and spend some time in nature

• Try a relaxation technique like yoga or meditation

• Practice breathing exercises

• Spend some time meal prepping

• Create something new, like art or music

• Journal your thoughts

• Read a book

Weekly: Schedule at least one day per week when you unplug completely for a portion of that day. Choose an amount of time each week to:

• Unplug or Turn off your WiFi

• Turn your phone off or put on silent

• Have a tech-free meal, placing your phone and any other electronic devices in a separate room

• Set time limits on your apps to cut down on usage or set calendar reminders to take time to step away from screens

Monthly/annually: Plan some extra time to treat yourself for an extended period of tech-free space, and possibly even consider utilizing PTO time. Some longer, relaxing activity ideas are:

• Schedule one day off per month or every other month for a personal day

• Plan a spa day/get a massage

• Plan an extended weekend trip

• Take a longer vacation once a year

• Go camping and explore nature

• Go on a wellness retreat

Just remember to unplug and recharge your mental space!