disconnect and unwind with these 25 tech free activities
From sundown on Friday (March 4) until sundown on Saturday (March 5) it is National Day of Unplugging. The organization encourages people to step away from technology for those 24 hours and be more present to the world around us. That means no cell phone, computer, ipad, Facebook, or Twitter. The project comes from the Sabbath Manifesto which encourages us to slow down our lives and be more mindful of every action we take. It is a project inspired by the Jewish traditions of rest on the seventh day. The idea of carving out time one day per week to unwind, unplug, relax, reflect, and connect with others. So, if it seems too challenging to do this on a weekly basis, just try it for those 24 hours and see how you do. You might surprise yourself! You can even take a pledge to unplug at nationaldayofunplugging.com. If you are having some trouble figuring out how to fill your time with activities that don't include technology, we have developed a list of 25 ideas below!
- Get lost in a book you've wanted to read.
- Play a game. Our favorites are The Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride.
- Paint, draw, or color.
- Ride a bike.
- Hang out in a coffee shop.
- Hang out in a library.
- Meditate. If this is new to you check out our post on how to bring meditation into your daily routine.
- Practice yoga. Try a sun salutation! We've got a video you can follow here.
- Stretch! Need some guidance? Check out this simple pleasure here.
- Cook a new recipe. Like these banana almond butter muffins or maybe some Portuguese soup.
- Make a DIY. We have so many on our site to choose from! We've got a lip scrub, hair serum, flower crown, or deodorant recipe just to name a few.
- Create an at home spa experience. Maybe with mani/pedis, facials, and/or a hair mask. Try our honey facial!
- Thrift shop.
- Garden.
- Plant a terrarium. If you aren't sure how to get started, follow our simple DIY here.
- Play with a pet.
- Make a vision board like the one we created for this post in January.
- Have a deep conversation with someone you love.
- Write in a journal.
- Explore your town like a tourist.
- Hike.
- Walk around a new neighborhood.
- Beachcomb. One of our simple pleasures!
- Have a meal like a European: long, leisurely and with a glass of wine.
- Give back to your community, volunteer at a soup kitchen.