We live in a society where distractions are everywhere. It’s like we live in a constant web of noise, plugged into everything. Our phones are going off with texts, notifications, and calls. Media bombards us with news, ads, and more television channels than we could ever watch. We glue our eyes to our tablets and watches, and this is harming everything in our lives. Our physical and mental health, relationships, etc. We don’t know how to connect and be authentic anymore.
Would you like to combat this way of living? Even for a day? March 7th is the National Day of Unplugging, when people can carve out time to unplug, relax, reflect, and connect with others.
If this sounds like a great idea to partake in by yourself or with your family, here are some ideas to help make those precious twenty-four hours count. Who knows, you may realize there are a few electronics you don’t miss as much as you thought!
Gather a friend, family member, and/or the dog and head outside for a walk. If you are with someone, take some time to have an authentic conversation. Ask some questions that will spark conversation. Working on anything recently? What was the highlight of your day so far? When you were growing up, what was your dream job? Is any part of that still true?
If you are by yourself with your dog, take some time to take in the sights, scenery, and smells around you. So many times, we walk in familiar surroundings but don’t notice a thing. Now is the time to do that.
Choose a book off your bookshelf, go to the library, or hit up the secondhand bookstore for a book you want to read. I love e-books just as much as the next person, and having hundreds, if not thousands, on my Kindle is super convenient. Still, there is nothing like holding a physical book in your hand and inhaling the aroma of paper and ink. If you love books, you get this. Then, read it and leave a review for your favorite retailer to keep you accountable so you finish it.
Break out the board games and have a family board game night. Make sure you choose some games for all ages to play. Don’t have kids? Invite your friends over and have them bring their favorite games for variety. Grab the snacks and get playing!
It’s so easy to jump on the internet and find a recipe for whatever you want to make. I do this all the time, but I have tons of books and magazines with recipes too. Taste of Home junkie, anyone? Find a recipe for something you want to bake in a recipe book or magazine and fire up the oven.
Spend some time outside doing your favorite activity. Things like gardening, playing a sport, doing yard work, or relaxing with a book on the porch swing.
Gather family and friends and have some playtime together. Play looks different for everyone, so this could be a flag football game in the backyard, an afternoon of crafting, or an evening of games together (board and card).
You know that DIY project you have always wanted to start? Today is the perfect day to do it. Make some plans, buy the materials you need, and get started. This is a great day to clean out the garage, attic, or basement or start that back deck project.
Take the day and give your home a good, deep spring cleaning. Open your windows and let some fresh air in, wash your curtains and rehang them, or choose something else that you don’t normally clean. The things you don’t normally have time for. This is a great day to get your home ready for the busy months ahead.
Take this day to explore a new hobby you have been wanting to try. Since you can’t look up videos online, pick up a book from the library about your favorite hobby and start there. This could be a book about jewelry making, woodworking, or crocheting.
Gather your loved ones, crank up the tunes, and have a dance party. Choose an era of music and dress the part, listen to the popular music of the day, teach your kids popular dances from that decade, and eat foods from that era.
If your local park has walking trails, go on a nature walk. You may see a squirrel scamper across your path, fish in the river, or various birds flying overhead.
Take the day and volunteer with a local nonprofit or charity. This is a great way for your kids to learn about a cause, connect with other people, and make a difference. If your schedule allows, take it one step further and volunteer once a month or once every two weeks.
If you have a Dairy Queen or an independent ice cream parlor nearby, go get an ice cream cone. This is a simple way to spend meaningful time together with your loved ones.
Letters are such a lost art but are so personal. Take some time and write a letter to someone today. You don’t have to send it if you don’t want to. Spend some time expressing your thoughts and feelings and catching everyone up on your life. If you decide to send it, your recipient will be happy to find something other than bills in the mailbox.
Sit quietly and take some time to reflect on your life and where it’s going. Are you happy? Are there things that need to change? Make a list of what needs to change and ways to do so. This is the perfect day to make plans with no distractions.
Find a quiet place with your Bible, a notepad, and a pen, and talk to God and pray. We get so busy in our lives and can be slaves to distraction. Open your heart and pour it out to him. He wants to hear from you. Then decide when you can do this each day, even if it’s only for five to ten minutes.
Go out with your friends for dinner or a movie. Or have them over for dinner and dessert. Spend some quality time with your best friends and enjoy each other without distraction.
Tidy up your bookshelf and take the books you don’t want to little free libraries in your area. This is a great way to share books with other people. When you visit, look and see what’s available. You may find a copy of a beloved book you lost or a book by a new favorite author.
There are all kinds of ways to unplug on the National Day of Unplugging. Choose something from this list, gather any supplies or things you need, and plan to have a relaxing day!
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