We were all forced to take a little social media break recently, and whether you breezed through it or struggled, going unplugged can be great for you.
South Africa (05 October 2021) – Whether due to a social media blackout, loadshedding or because you want to switch off a bit more, we have come up with a few ways to stay busy and entertained while staying unplugged.
Infinite scrolling can be very entertaining, but when the option is taken from you, or you are trying to seriously reduce screentime, breaking the habit can be tricky! After the WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram blackout yesterday, many found themselves a little perplexed on what to do with the extra time on their hands.
Going unplugged is becoming more popular, especially for a day here and there. Personally, Sunday’s are a great day to totally switch off and catch up on reading, gardening and cooking a time-consuming meal.
These are the top 5 ways we like to stay unplugged; please share your favourite activities in the comment section. People love options!
Read that book!
We all have that book collecting dust on the bedside table, itching to be read, but we just can’t find the time. Having a paper book ready to go means you can switch off at any time and disappear into a world unknown.
If you have children, storytime is an absolute highlight! Spend time each night reading a story to them. If your children are old enough and ready for a world of adventure, introduce them to some of your favourite childhood books that they can read on their own, at their own pace.
If you are looking for book recommendations, reach out to friends and family to ask what they have loved recently, or research the best sellers in your favoured genre and give them a try. Once you get started, you will be hard-pressed to put that book back down again.
Board games are loads of fun.
Board games are another family-inclusive activity. They can bring out the fun in anyone!
If you don’t have any board games on hand, try second-hand retailers or charity shops for a few options. A deck of cards can also make the hours pass by. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of games out there.
For those so inclined, you can even play drinking games that always lead to lots of laughter; just make sure nobody needs to drive.
What are some of your best games?
Cook together.
Unplugging can have significant benefits for your relationship. By cooking a meal together and sitting down to eat it without having technology or TV distract you, you have the opportunity to really connect with your partner. Over time, nights like these will be the most memorable.
For some family fun, call everyone in and bake delicious cookies, then have a decorating party where everyone gets to make the cookie of their dreams.
Alternatively, get your grandparent or parent to teach you how to make that family favourite dish. The time is now, and you never know, they might finally let you in on the secret family ingredient.
If you are on your own, why not perfect a home-cooked version of your favourite take away? Or start menu planning for a dinner party with friends, practice makes perfect, and your friends will really love you for it.
Puzzle it up!
Challenge your brain to some puzzle work, whether that be a jigsaw puzzle or this week’s Sudoku. Sit back and strengthen those brain cells; in the long run, it will really help out.
Most magazines and newspapers will have a puzzle section, but you can also purchase puzzle books and jigsaws from local retailers. Again, should you wish to find affordable options, visit your local second-hand store or charity shop. They will definitely have a selection of puzzles on hand.
Soak the stress away!
Can you say home spa day? Get that kettle boiling and give yourself a relaxing facial and massage; or any of those indulgent spa treatments you love so much. Most shops will have something relaxing on the shelves for you to use.
The bath is a great place to unwind; if you love bubbles and face masks, indulge in a deep soak. Light those candles and lay back.
You can also do a foot soak and massage with very little on hand. Sugar, course salt and coffee grounds all make great exfoliants. Your usual moisturiser applied thick and covered with fresh socks will leave your feet feeling so soft!
What is your favourite spa DIY?
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