As the founder of Workup, a trusted health and wellness marketplace and knowledge-hub, I’m fortunate to be at the forefront of leading health solutions designed to help us live longer, healthier lives. Beyond Workup, I’ve long been passionate about the role that fitness and nutrition play in my own pursuit of achieving goals – be it completing an Ironman triathlon, excelling on a professional level or being a more energetic and active father, husband and member of the community.
Despite such a focus on the health and wellness landscape, it wasn’t until a recent lunch with peer company founders and small business owners that I learned of one health practice that purportedly made such a powerful difference in the personal health and professional success of many members of the group: disconnecting from technology.
The value of doing so became immediately obvious to me. In today’s hyper-connected world, we often find ourselves glued to screens—whether it’s work emails, social media or the never-ending news cycle. While technology has undeniably brought us convenience and connectivity, it’s also added a layer of noise to our lives.
One of the best ways I’ve found to counteract this is by carving out at least 30 minutes a day to disconnect completely and go for a walk in nature. Rain or shine, this daily ritual has become a powerful tool for both my mental and physical health.
Why Disconnecting Matters
Studies show that constant engagement with screens can lead to higher levels of stress, fatigue and burnout. The constant flood of information can overwhelm our mental bandwidth, leaving us mentally drained by the end of the day. Taking a deliberate break from technology—even just half an hour a day—can have a profound impact on our mental well-being.
These walks, especially in a natural setting, allow me to tune out the constant notifications and reset. The benefits of disconnecting are immediate; I can almost feel my shoulders relax, my breath deepen and a sense of peace take over.
Mental Health Benefits of Nature and Movement
The mental health benefits of spending time in nature are well-documented. Walking outside has been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and can even help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Something about being in a natural setting—hearing the rustle of leaves, feeling the ground beneath my feet—brings a unique calm and clarity that’s hard to achieve in any other setting.
Walking also provides the ideal setting for my mind to wander, free from the confines of work demands and digital distractions. Some of my best ideas have come during these daily walks. In fact, it’s often during these tech-free moments that I find solutions to professional challenges or experience breakthroughs in personal clarity. This kind of creative flow doesn’t seem to happen when I’m staring at a screen, trying to force ideas.
Reconnecting with Ourselves
Aside from the creative benefits, these daily walks have also deepened my connection with myself. With no notifications pulling me in different directions, I’m able to tune in to my own thoughts and feelings. The walk becomes a mini meditation—a time to reflect on the day, process emotions and set intentions for the future. There’s something truly transformative about giving yourself a daily space to reconnect.
How to Start Your Own Daily Disconnect
If you’re interested in trying a daily disconnect, here are a few tips to get started:
- Schedule it: Block off 30 minutes on your calendar. Think of it as a non-negotiable appointment with yourself.
- Go device-free: Resist the temptation to take your phone or, if you need it for safety, put it on airplane mode. This is time for you, not for your emails.
- Embrace the weather: Don’t let rain or cold discourage you. There’s a beauty in experiencing nature’s various moods and being outdoors regardless of the weather can be grounding in its own way.
- Be present: Focus on your surroundings. It sounds hokey but notice the colors, sounds and textures around you. Let your mind wander freely without judgment or expectation.
Disconnecting from technology is a small habit that, over time, can bring enormous benefits. Whether it’s clarity of thought, creativity or a deeper connection with yourself, the rewards are well worth the effort. Give it a try—you may find that stepping away from the digital world is one of the best things you can do for your health.