Unplugging: Do you need a social media detox?
You sit staring at a computer screen all day at work. You text back and forth. You answer emails. You’d think that once the work day is over and the dinner dishes have been cleared that you’d be ready to sit and relax.
The reality, though, is that most people are still plugged into their phones in the evening. Texts continue. Work emails are read and answered long after the work day has ended. Then you just have to check your Facebook feed, order a new pair of shoes, pin recipes and DIY projects over on Pinterest, and share the latest photo on Instagram. And then there is the stressful reading of political posts that appear day after day. Honestly, it can be stressful!
It is almost as if we panic at the thought of missing out on something important if we put the phone down. What would happen if you stayed away from social media for an evening?
Would it be the end of the world? Absolutely not.
By spending a few hours unplugged, you will find that you have more time to engage in conversation, play with your children, get lost in the pages of a good book or maybe even head to bed early.
If the thought of cutting that cord seems scary, take baby steps. Schedule hours of being unplugged to focus on your self care. For example, start with just one evening a week. Commit to this small block of time and see what happens.
Is taking a social media break causing you to feel stressed?
It is understandable. Experts say that social media addiction is real — and it is a growing problem that impacts everything from our personal relationships to our jobs. It is only natural that some people feel real anxiety over being away from the popular social networks.
If the thought of unplugging makes you feel anxious, consider some aromatherapy. Instead of checking out the latest app or game on your smartphone, commit to a 60 minute break to enjoy a bit of pampering. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. Just be aware of yourself -- not the tv, music, phone -- be sure you truly unplug.
During this time, consider a shower or bath with products containing essential oils.
Let's start with one of our most favorite oils, Lavender.
It is, perhaps, the most well known of the Essential Oils.
Lavender, or Lavandula Angustifolia, is commonly grown throughout Europe, particularly in Bulgaria, France, and England. It can be grown here, though. I live in New York and actually have been able to grow it right in my garden. This fragrant herb is just lovely. It works well on its own or can be used in blends to enhance its effects.
Lavender, though, does much more than smell nice. A scientific research team at Texas A & M University conducted a study to measure a human’s response to odor. Study participants were asleep and given EEG tests. This study was conducted in 1992 and had interesting results. It showed that Lavender Essential Oil essentially lulled the participants to sleep sooner.
At Seed, we offer a large assortment of lavender with REAL lavender to help you while you try to unplug.
My favorite idea, especially for gift-giving, would be our Lavender Special Packs--
We also offer several different Beneficial Blends with lavender:
Dream Land (Lavender + Lemon + Ginger)
Unwind (Lavender + Orange + Patchouli)
Stress Relief (Lavender + Patchouli + Clary Sage)
I've unplugged-- Now what?
You went for an hour (or maybe only 30 minutes) without being connected to technology. What happened? Did you miss something that absolutely could not have waited? Did you feel calm and relaxed during this time? Consider taking longer periods of "detox" time from social media each evening. Talk with a friend -- on the phone or in person -- not via Messenger or text. Draw. Color. Do a puzzle. Read a book. Walk the dog. Just be.
Have you taken a social media detox? How long did it last? How did it make you feel?
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