National Day of Unplugging happens every year in March. This year we will celebrate this national holiday on March 4th by unplugging from the virtual world to be more present in our real world.
In today’s world, it is more important than ever to unplug and connect with the people and things around us. The National Day of Unplugging started in 2010 as an event that encouraged people to unplug from their technology, turn off the TV, spend time with friends and family, read a good book or simply relax.
This is an occasion to disconnect yourself from high-tech gadgets for 24 hours. As part of my preparation for this day of unplugging, I want to remind you of various ways you can unplug all year round:
1. Take a break away from the internet
We live in an online world where it’s easy to get wrapped up in our online life. To celebrate National Unplugging Day, take a day off of the internet so you can unplug yourself for 24 hours.
2. Unplug your TV
Do not watch any televisions or other electronic screens for 24 hours. Instead, try to spend more time talking with your family and friends.
3. Leave your phone behind
Leave your devices at home on National Unplugging Day so you have no choice but to be present wherever you are. Instead of taking photos of the world around you, open up a book, go for a walk, or strike up a conversation with the strangers around you.
4. Read more books
Instead of taking photos of the world around you or playing on your devices, try to read more instead. If you feel like reading is too much work, try listening to an audiobook while undertaking another activity such as cleaning your house, walking your dog, or commuting to work.
5. Spend less time on social media
Try spending less time on social media for National Unplugging Day to disconnect from the virtual world and instead focus on your real life. Don’t worry if you have no choice but to use social media so try avoiding it whenever possible.
Why Celebrate National Day of Unplugging?
While most of you will be on board with the idea of unplugging for 24 hours, let’s face it, some of you may be a little more reluctant.
I understand and I do hear you.
But, do you hear me?
Since I know some of you out there may need a little more convincing to think that 24 hours without electronics is worthy of a celebration, I’m sharing some of my favorite reasons why I believe everyone should celebrate National Day of Unplugging:
Being present in this moment.
Unplugging from the virtual world and living life by being present is truly a gift we can give ourselves.
Celebrate real life.
Instead of taking photos and posting them online, try celebrating your real life by spending time with family and friends and really enjoying their company instead of looking at your phone screen.
Gain space to dream.
No distractions will give you the time and space to dream big. It also gives your mind a chance to wander which makes solving problems easier.
Reconnect with yourself.
This day can help you reconnect with yourself so you don’t regret missing out on life.
Take care of yourself.
When you unplug, you will have more time to take care of yourself which includes your health. Try exercising, reading a book, or meditating.
So there you have it, plenty of positive reasons to celebrate National Day of Unplugging. I’ll be honest with you, I do my best to incorporate at least one day per week of total unplugging. This has truly helped me stay more balanced, optimistic, and present in my family life.
If you’re still reluctant about celebrating National Day of Unplugging, I invite you to start planning now for this unique holiday. Make some notes and get yourself ready to unplug for the entire day on March 4th. You can give this one day in March and see how you feel the next day. Who knows, it may be the start of something wonderful where you unplug once a week like I do.