3 Amazing Benefits of No-Screen Days

For the past five consecutive Saturdays, I have refrained from laying either of my eyes on any screens. Say what?! Yep, this includes: iPhone, computer, and television. I carefully observed my experience during this time and have come to truly eye-opening conclusions. Eliminating screens appears to have the following benefits…

• Frees up a LOT of time. I still can’t believe how much time I seem to have on my No-Screen Saturdays. Normally, I don’t get out of the apartment and start in on my errands until almost noon. When I get up and realize don’t have the option to check my messages and the latest posts on Facebook, I shrug my shoulders and jump immediately into the tasks for the day.

• Allows for real relaxation. Usually I am still checking updates on my phone even when winding down after the long work day. Having No-Screen Saturdays has made it clear that I might be relaxing physically by sprawling out on the couch, but my mind is still spinning and being yanked in all different directions by clicking from one hyperlink to the next. When the phone and TV aren’t there, I have no choice but to simply sit and be with my thoughts. I had almost forgotten what it was like to eat dinner without having some mental distraction on in the background.

• Enhances sensory perception. On several occasions during my No-Screen Saturdays, I’ve been driving around the town I live in noticing houses, stores, and even geological structures I’d never noticed before. Usually I’m on my phone listening to music or podcasts to keep my mind entertained. When those options aren’t available, my mind starts to notice and appreciate the environment directly around me.

The phone is the most tempting and easy device to escape from reality on. So, on Friday night, I set up an away message, put it on “Do Not Disturb” which silences all tones, and then tuck the device away – out of sight; out of mind.

I strongly encourage that everyone try a No-Screen day. Even just one day to observe how it makes you feel. 

Thanks for reading.
~Ethan

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