At Energy Health we think the digital world is something to be celebrated.
Our Energy Health website, our Home2health online programs, and our online social media platforms being good examples of that.
So right from the get go here, we want to acknowledge all the wonderful opportunities the digital world provides for us.

The digital world, particularly over the last 12 months, has encouraged many businesses, like Energy Health, to move further and deeper into the online space.
It has created new opportunities for businesses and people to connect and add further value and support in our communities.

But like too much of anything in life, the digital world can be a drain on our health and wellness and our relationships.
It can absorb us. It can take our attention and our presence away from our offline relationships and those things and experiences that are important to us.

We have all seen the memes of people buried in their phones during social get togethers, and walking down busy city streets texting away oblivious to all and sundry.
A local bus ride also reveals how many of us turn to our digital devices as soon as we take a seat.
Our digital devices have superimposed themselves well and truly in our lives.

Today we are providing you with some practical approaches, tips and strategies to help you manage your digital awareness, usage and exposure towards a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Before we jump into this, we want to acknowledge that one size does not fit all here when it comes to digital usage and societal norms.
There are clearly generational differences in what constitutes normalised or healthy technology usage.
For example, what is totally acceptable behaviour and usage for a Gen Y may be seen as being totally inappropriate for a Gen X.
We will let you work that out!

The key is to be able to be aware enough and cognisant enough of your own surroundings when socialising, and your own personal health when it comes to your own usage.

Have digital breaks

These apply not just at work, but in your own private life as well.
A good place to start is by using a digital (we see the irony in that) app.
The easiest way to find the right app for you is to simply do a google search for ‘best app digital detox’ – there are many to choose from that provide you with multiple ways to unplug and manage your digital exposure.

Social gatherings

It can be challenging sometimes to get everyone to agree on leaving the phone at home or to have it out of reach.
Often there will be any number of very good reasons why someone needs their phone.
It may be work or family related or a safety issue perhaps.
A good idea is to have a plan or series of plans to manage this.
It could simply be that someone is designated to monitor messages, or a basket of devices are left on the table.
Some restaurants and cafes have a policy of no devices – this can save a lot of time and negotiation.

Digital days/time off

Simply decide to go device free for a day. It might be done on a weekend, or a trip away for example.
If it’s a challenge to do this, try replacing it with something that you love doing, or reward yourself for the time you stay away from your device.
You want to build behaviours and habits that strengthen your intentions.

Time blocking

This can help you to become more consciously aware of your usage.
By time blocking (planning when you will use your device) you can start the process of monitoring and prioritising your usage towards the things that really matter. Perhaps you become more aware of the things you deliberately do, and start sorting the time wasting aspects of digital usage?
That awareness can be valuable in working out what is important and what isn’t.

Time to change your phone or get phone number 2?

Perhaps your mobile phone is a little too good with all of its features and distractions. Enter phone number 2.
A second phone that has no internet/data access, for example, may be a good strategy to help you stay connected without the constant focus and attention placed on it.

Changing your digital data plan

Less data access means less time spent online.
It can also lead to saving money on a cheaper more streamlined plan perhaps.

Reframing your digital usage approach

Reframing your approach by becoming aware of the impact your digital usage may be having on those people around you, can be a powerful strategy to embrace a digital detox and reduce usage.
For example, your partner or friends may be getting a little tired of you not engaging, listening, or being present with them in social situations or when you are together.
This awareness of your impact on others can be a big wake up call.

The key to experiencing success with a digital detox is to get strong on your ‘why’ and to create new behaviours and approaches that strengthen and fortify your goals and aspirations.