What is a digital detox? Meaning, benefits and how to start

A digital detox is a planned period when you stay away from screens and connected devices, such as phones, tablets, laptops and social media, so that your attention can recover.

Digital detox meaning

The word “detox” is borrowed from health, but a digital detox is not a medical treatment. It simply means stepping back from constant notifications and scrolling on purpose, for an hour, a day, or longer.

Why people try it

• To concentrate for longer on one task.
• To feel less distracted during conversations and meals.
• To get more restful sleep by avoiding late-night screens.
• To spend time on slower activities such as reading, walking or writing.

Experiences differ from person to person, and a detox is not a cure for any condition. If screen use is affecting your mental health, speak to a qualified professional.

Types of digital detox

1. A short break. One screen-free hour each day.
2. A screen-free evening. Phones out of the bedroom after a set time.
3. A day offline. A weekend day with no social media.
4. An app or notification detox. Remove the apps that pull you in most.
5. A group detox. A team or family does it together.

How to start

1. Pick a small, specific goal, such as “no phone for the first hour of the day”.
2. Tell the people who need to reach you.
3. Replace the habit with something tactile. Handwriting works well: a few lines in a notebook keeps your hands busy and your mind on one thing.
4. Review after a week and adjust.

A digital detox at work

Teams find it easier to switch off together. Read how a guided session works in digital detox at work, or try the screen-free habits in how to improve focus.

Our 90-minute Digital Detox & Focus Workshop is led by a Calista Master Trainer and is screen-free from start to finish.