With the constant barrage of notifications, messages, and screens in our daily lives, no wonder why the average person spends 6 hours and 58 minutes of screen time daily. Since 2013, daily screen time has increased by nearly 50 minutes per day–That’s wild! Thus, National Unplug Day emerged as a way to detoxify society of technological connectedness and enjoy simpler pleasures.
Taking a break from our devices can be a welcome change for the good, a chance to reconnect with the world and spend quality time with friends and family. So, ditch your device with these 7 creative things to do on National Unplug Day to help you recharge and enjoy some time offline.
1. Unplug your phone and go for a hike
Take a break from screens and go hiking in nature to get some fresh air. Whether you’re doing it in the countryside or walking along a nature trail, it’s a great way to connect with the world and get some exercise–And who knows, maybe you’ll even be able to spot some wildlife along the way!
2. Attend a candlelit concert as a perfect excuse for National Unplug Day
There’s nothing quite like the ambience of a candlelit concert. Just imagine being surrounded by a sea of candles as classically-trained musicians play your favourite songs. No phones, no distractions, just you, the music and a warm cosy ambience–Now that’s what we like to call a full detox. Candlelight offers a wide range of concerts to suit all tastes, from tributes like Coldplay and Fleetwood Mac to special concerts like the Warner Bros. 100th anniversary celebration with their iconic movie soundtracks, the perfect evening plan to enjoy music without the distraction of screens.
3. Ditch your consoles and get to the real games
Gather your friends and connect with your inner children at this spectacular Sunday Funday soft-play adventure. Whizz down slides, crawl through tunnels and dive into ball pits inside an epic three-storey play frame. Finally, watch as playtime transforms into a nightclub atmosphere, with DJs spinning the best old-school anthems for you to dance and sing along to. It’s a night guaranteed to transport you back to a time before smart devices!
4. Disconnect from technology and connect with art and history
The best way to unplug is to visit an art gallery or museum‘s vast collections of art and history to explore. Take in the beauty of the artwork and let your mind wander. If you’re feeling extra creative, bring a notepad and try to sketch what’s in front of you–Just promise us one thing, don’t take out your phone to take pictures. Enjoy the moment!
5. Let National Unplug Day be the day you finally go to a yoga class
Practising yoga is a great way to disconnect from everything and reconnect with your body and mind. From increased flexibility and muscle strength to improved respiration, energy and vitality, the benefits of yoga are endless. So why not use this day to finally sign up for that class you’ve been eyeing for a while? Visit one of London’s best yoga studios to enjoy all the good things yoga can do for you.
6. Call all your foodie friends and go on a food tour
Dare to go on a food tour without taking a single Instagram pic? Call all your foodie friends because London Exotic East End Immersive Food Tour will take you on a culinary journey around the world to celebrate the diverse cultures in London. You’ll sample everything from local delicacies to international dishes.
7. Finish off National Unplug Day with a clearing bike ride
Whether you’re riding back from work or want to take a break to disconnect from the everyday, finish off your day with a bike ride. There are many, many cycling routes through London that offer the best scenic views of the city. Bike through Regent’s Canal or Epping Forest and feel the fresh air and sun–hopefully–in your face for a total recharge.
There you have it, Secret London’s unplugged plans to make the most of National Unplug Day. Remember that disconnecting from digital mediums has incredible benefits in the long run. Unplugging will help you enhance your mental and cognitive health, prioritize your physical health, and provide more time to engage in intellectually stimulating activities. So, don’t forget to take a break and enjoy the world around you, and you’ll soon see all the positive impact it has on you–even if it’s for one day!