Switch Off to Power Up: A Digital Detox for Better Sleep and Energy
The digital world that we live in can often feel overwhelming, but consciously switching off from the screen is not something that is often on our radars. At Lumie, we are focusing on our health and well-being, and over the past two weeks, Social Media Executive, Annie, has embarked on the challenge of a digital detox to help her mind and body to unwind.
Let's hear what Annie has to say!
What did the digital detox consist of?
Evening screen time can interfere with our circadian rhythms, leading to disrupted sleep patterns. Over the past two weeks, I have opted to prioritise better quality sleep by saying goodbye to screens at 8pm daily. Creating a tech-free zone has enabled me to set aside time for reflective practices such as journaling with lovely Papier notebooks, and creating a soothing ambiance with Lumie Bodyclock and relaxing scents from Aery to promote better sleep. During the day, I have also prioritised nutritional nourishment to achieve a better energy balance with delicious meals and snacks from Lion's Prep. Whilst some of these brands are only available in the UK, there are many brilliant alternatives in the US!
Watch the following reels to find out more.
What were the outcomes?
Whilst at first it was a challenge to say goodbye to my phone every evening, I have noticed a significant improvement in my sleep quality and energy levels. Creating boundaries with my phone has allowed me to strike a healthy balance between the demands of a role in Social Media and the need to relax and unwind. Here are 5 top tips for embarking on your own digital detox at home for improved sleep!
Top tips:
1. Establish a digital sunset ritual: Create a routine in which you begin to wind down from digital activities as the evening approaches. Set a specific time, like 8pm, to signal the start of a "digital sunset." This helps the mind transition from the busyness of the day to a more relaxed state.
2. Create a tech-free zone: Designate certain areas of the home as tech-free zones. This could include the dining table or bedroom. Keeping these spaces free from screens promotes better sleep and encourages more meaningful interactions with family and friends. I often find myself fixed to the screen when working from home, not taking the usual lunch break like I would in the office. So, I’ve been putting my phone down and enjoying my lunch with a side of gratitude journaling. I’ve been able to make the most of the time away from the desk and having prepared healthy meals makes me feel good mentally and physically during my working day, whether at home or in the office - it has been a game-changer!
3. Find alternative activities: Replace screen time with activities that promote relaxation and well-being. Consider reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby. The key is to find activities that bring joy and fulfilment without the need for digital devices.
4. Prioritise quality sleep: The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of the sleep hormone, melatonin. Turning off your phone at 8pm can significantly contribute to better sleep.
5. Prioritise mental well-being: Whilst constant phone usage is the norm when working within social media, implementing a routine of limited evening screen time has proven beneficial. Carving out time to disconnect is an invaluable tool for maintaining a healthy balance between the demands of work and the need for mental rejuvenation.
If you are looking to optimise your sleep environment, and wind down from digital activities, Lumie wake-up lights creating a tranquil environment on an evening with their gradual sunset feature, and rouse you from sleep naturally on a morning with slowly increasing levels of light. Why not couple this with some relaxing scents from your favourite home fragrance brand, and allow yourself to reflect with a Papier journal?