“The Magic of Unplugging” 🌿

For as long as I can remember, my days have been filled with noise—constant notifications, endless school schedules, deadlines, and the hum of technology that never seems to sleep. Even when I try to rest, my mind is pulled toward screens—emails waiting to be answered, lesson plans to finalize, or messages that somehow always seem urgent. I thought this was just life, the way we all live now. But I didn’t realize how much it was draining me until I stepped away from it all.

This summer, I gave myself a gift: a break from electricity, Wi-Fi, and screens. It wasn’t something I had carefully planned, but an opportunity that came with spending time outdoors, away from the city and its demands. At first, I was nervous. What would I do without my phone? How would I fill the hours without a laptop or television? What if I missed something important?

But something unexpected happened. I didn’t feel bored at all—I felt free.

The first morning, I joined a group hike through a forest trail. The sound of crunching leaves under my feet, birds calling from the trees, and the fresh air filling my lungs woke me up in a way no alarm ever could. Later that day, I found myself laughing until my stomach hurt as we tried canoeing and kayaking. It wasn’t about being perfect or skilled—it was about being present, splashing, racing, and even tipping over into the water. That laughter felt different, deeper.

Over the next few days, I tried things I never thought I would enjoy. I learned archery and rifle shooting, not to compete but to focus, to steady my hands and clear my mind. I joined STEM activities that reminded me of being a child again—launching paper rockets into the air, building small robots, and creating models with nothing but imagination and teamwork.

Pioneering tasks like bridge building and problem-solving challenges brought out creativity I didn’t know I still had. Cooking popcorn and S’mores over a campfire became more than just food—it was an experience of togetherness, of sitting in a circle, passing bowls, telling stories, and letting time slow down. I met new friends, strangers who quickly became companions because without phones, we looked at each other instead of down at screens.

The nights were my favorite. Lying on my back under the open sky, I watched constellations spread across the darkness, stars that felt close enough to touch. The world was quiet, and for the first time in months, so was my mind. One morning, I stayed awake long enough to watch the sunrise paint the horizon with golden light. It felt like a promise—that beginnings could be simple and beautiful if we allowed them to be.

In those unplugged days, I found a version of myself I had forgotten. I relaxed in ways I didn’t know were possible. I laughed freely, breathed deeply, and moved slowly. I felt a healthy glow on my skin, but more importantly, I carried home a renewed energy in my heart.

What I discovered was not just the absence of technology, but the presence of life. Without electricity, I noticed the rhythm of nature, the joy of human connection, and the peace that comes from silence. I realized how often I distract myself with screens when what I truly crave is belonging, stillness, and joy.

Now that I’m back to reality—school runs, lesson plans, deadlines—I hold on to the memory of those days. I know it’s not always possible to live without technology, but I also know it’s essential to step away sometimes, even if just for a weekend, an afternoon, or a few moments each day.

Maybe you could try it too. Before the new academic year begins and the cycle of work and responsibility pulls us in again, give yourself the chance to unplug. Turn off your phone, step outside, and let the world surprise you. You might discover laughter, friendship, and peace waiting for you—just beyond the screen.

Are you ready for your own digital detox?