Roses I saw on a walk during my 24 hours unplugged
When I learned that taking 24 hours to unplug from technology was an option for an event, I was very excited because I have always wanted to try this. During Week 10 of the quarter, I am already on my computer quite a lot, on top of my frequent cell phone use. I had to plan ahead in order to try the challenge out, making sure I completed all assignments that would be due during the 24 hours as well as notifying close friends and family of how to get in touch if there was an emergency or something important. Once I did, it was so freeing! I had free time set aside away from assignments, social media, and endless notifications. I also felt more connected to my environment and noticed my surroundings. I took multiple walks and saw the beautiful roses pictured above!

In my research on "digital detoxes" I found that they can reduce stress, improve sleep, and even enhance creativity. I was particularly interested in this fact, especially as this class challenges us to use our creative minds. I actually found this to be true and was inspired to work on some paintings I had been meaning to finish. I wrote down this quote from Albert Einstein about creativity (pictured below) next to my palette, a reminder of the time I got to enjoy being creative during the detox!
I really enjoyed my 24 hour unplug challenge, and I think this is a practice I will have to repeat, especially when I am feeling stressed or overstimulated! I would highly recommend trying this activity if you have never done something like it.
References
1. Bedgood, Scott. “How 24 Hours without a Phone Can Change Your Life.” Bedgood Marketing, 18 Feb. 2019, scottbedgood.com/2019/02/17/how-24-hours-without-a-phone-can-change-your-life/.
2. Cherry, Kendra. “The Benefits of Doing a Digital Detox.” Verywell Mind, 19 Nov. 2020, www.verywellmind.com/why-and-how-to-do-a-digital-detox-4771321.
3. Mirgain, Shilagh. “Digital Detox: Unplugging for Mental Wellness.” Www.manipalhospitals.com, 26 Apr. 2019, www.manipalhospitals.com/blog/digital-detox-unplugging-for-mental-wellness/.
4. Mirgain, Shilagh . “Taking a Technology Break Can Help Your Health.” Www.uwhealth.org, 26 Apr. 2019, www.uwhealth.org/news/taking-technology-break-can-help-health.
5. “What Is a Digital Detox and Do You Need One? | Lifespan.” Www.lifespan.org, 8 June 2023, www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/what-digital-detox-and-do-you-need-one.
Images
1. My own image from my camera.
2. Mirgain, Shilagh. “Digital Detox: Unplugging for Mental Wellness.” Www.manipalhospitals.com, 26 Apr. 2019, www.manipalhospitals.com/blog/digital-detox-unplugging-for-mental-wellness/.
3. My own image from my camera.
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