In a world where people wear busy like a badge of honour, not being busy can feel awkward and unnatural. We’re human, but sometimes we act like we’re battery-operated. But, being busy does not always equal productive. Worse, constantly grinding can lead to burnout, lowered immunity, anxiety, insomnia and stress-related illnesses.
The pace at which many of us are living these days is affecting our ability to take time out, slow down, relax and refuel. Add to this the mental energy it takes being always connected through our devices and it’s no wonder we crave rest. With our bodies constantly ‘switched on’, our health, wellbeing, sleep and relationships are increasingly paying the price. With all this commotion, there’s never been a more important time to find calm in the chaos of our lives. Taking the step to slow down can feel like one more thing to add to the ‘to-do list’. But, powering down for your mind and body may just be the key to boosting productivity, maintaining a healthy mindset and creating balance in all aspects of our lives.
If you find yourself feeling stressed, frantic or like you’re rushing from one thing to the next, learning how to switch off may be just what you need.
Slowing Down To Go Further
Finding ways to switch off your mind and body gives you an opportunity to unwind, relax, recharge your batteries and focus on the things that genuinely make you happy. Self-care is often the first thing that gets sacrificed when life gets busy. But, switching off to engage in some much-needed TLC should no longer be seen as a luxury - but as vital to your happiness and overall health. By taking some time out to prioritise your physical and mental well-being, you are not only able to relieve the pressures of everyday life but declutter your mind for good so you can take on whatever the day throws at you.
Ways to Switch Off Your Mind and Body
If you’ve been busy being busy, taking the first step to slowing down can be tough. Here are a few of our favourite self-care activities to help you switch off your mind and body and prepare yourself for deep, restorative Zzz’s!
- Attend a yoga or pilates class
- Find a quiet place to sit and engage in mindfulness meditation
- Go for a walk outside
- Practice deep breathing exercises
- Take a nice warm bath, with some light music playing in the background
- Journal your thoughts
- Do a digital detox
So, Why Do I Need To Switch Off? Tell Me The Benefits!
Boost productivity and focus
It may sound counterintuitive but slowing down can actually boost our productivity. When we rush through our lives or our work, we’re more likely to make mistakes. When we slow down, our mind is free to absorb information, assess the situation and circumstances, and make better decisions helping us to work better, faster and more effectively.
Feel refreshed and rejuvenated
Digitally detoxing allows us to feel fresher and more recharged when it comes to the start of a new work week. Both our brains and bodies need to recover from the intake of external stimuli that we are exposed to on our screens daily. Stepping away from our devices allows us to physically feel better.
Sleep more soundly
The blue light from screens tells your brain to stay alert and can make it hard to fall asleep. This upsets our circadian rhythm, surprising melatonin and other sleepy-time hormones. It is recommended to stay off your phone or laptop at leas5 30 minutes before bed to ensure you get the sleep you need.
Live in the present and enjoy the moment
When we live busy and distracted lives, we lose sight of the people in front of us. Going slow and being present in the moment allows us to truly appreciate life. Powering down and disconnecting from devices means less fragmented moments throughout the day so you can enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Improve your relationships
Besides giving you more time with the people you care about, regularly switching off from your screens can do wonders for your interpersonal relationships and in-person communication. It encourages you to connect with others and compose your thoughts, instead of relying on a text-based medium. It may even make you more empathetic!
Reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety
Studies have found direct links between anxiety, stress and a greater usage of devices. Unplugging from technology acts like a reboot for your brain. When you’re not constantly bombarded by emails, or glued to your phone mindlessly scrolling, your mind can slow down, relax and be present in the moment.
Boost positivity
Going screen-free, even for a day, can help us reconnect with who we really are, what is truly important to us, and what really makes us happy. Taking regular breaks from technology allows us to feel more refreshed and energised, having a major positive impact on our physical and mental well-being.
So what are you waiting for? Unplug and take the day for yourself!
