Did you know the average person spends over seven hours a day staring at screens? Between work, social media, and endless notifications, it can feel impossible to step away. But if you’ve ever felt drained by your digital habits, a digital detox might be just what you need to reset and refocus.

With President’s Day around the corner (Monday, Feburary 17), some of you may be looking forward to a three-day weekend. Why not use this extra time to unplug and recharge? Whether you’re spending it at home or out exploring, it’s a great opportunity to take a break from technology. 

Here are some tips to help you get started on your digital detox journey.

Use Your Phone’s Apps and Features

Both Apple and Android have built-in tools to help you manage screen time and improve your digital habits. Apple’s Screen Time and Android’s Digital Wellbeing features let you track usage, set limits, and create healthier routines.

Apple’s Screen Time

How to Find It:

1. Go to Settings 
2. Screen Time 
3. Tap Turn On Screen Time 
4. Continue 
5. Select This is My [device] or This is My Child’s [device].

Features to Explore:

• Downtime: Schedule times when only essential apps and calls are available.
• App Limits: Set daily limits for apps like social media or games.
• Always Allowed: Choose apps that are always accessible, even during Downtime.
• Android’s Digital Wellbeing

How to Find It:

1. Go to Settings 
2. Tap Digital Wellbeing & parental controls 
3. Digital Wellbeing.

Features to Explore:

• Wind Down: Switch your screen to grayscale and silence notifications for better focus.
• App Timers: Set daily limits to keep app usage in check.

Keep Your Phone Out of Reach

Your sleep schedule deserves better than late-night scrolling! Keeping your phone out of reach at bedtime can improve your rest and help you start the day feeling refreshed. Try setting your phone to Do Not Disturb mode and placing it on a charger across the room. The extra effort to get out of bed makes it easier to resist those midnight notifications.

Set a Digital Quiet Time

Dedicate some time each day to stepping away from technology. Whether it’s a short walk without your phone, turning off notifications, or simply placing your devices in another room, a little break goes a long way. Start small and increase your quiet time as you grow more comfortable.

Tech-Free Dinner

Make mealtime a screen-free zone. Instead of eating in front of the TV or scrolling through your phone, take the time to connect with friends, family, or even yourself. You might be surprised at how much more enjoyable meals can be without distractions.

What Can I Do Without My Phone?

Feeling lost without your device? It can take time to adjust, but there are plenty of ways to fill the time. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Try a face mask or other self-care activity.
• Read a book you’ve been meaning to start.
• Practice yoga or meditation.
• Cook a new recipe.
• Take a walk and enjoy the outdoors.
• Play a board game with friends or family.
• Go for a relaxing drive.
• Take the Leap This Weekend

With the three-day weekend ahead, there’s no better time to try a digital detox. Whether it’s a few hours or the entire weekend, stepping away from technology can help you feel more refreshed, focused, and connected to the world around you.

What steps are you taking to unplug? Share your tips and experiences on our Facebook post—we’d love to hear from you!