Is it time for a digital detox?

With the short days and cold weather, it’s easy to retreat indoors and fall into endless scrolling. But getting outside, spending a bit less time on our phones, and being more present can help boost mood, energy and focus.

Here are some simple ways to reduce your screen time and reconnect with your day, whether that’s making space for creativity, rest, or just stepping outside for some fresh air. 🌿

1. Set screen time limits for certain apps ⏱️

Why not check at your screen time and identify which apps you spend the most time on then ask yourself – is this benefiting my life? If not, set realistic daily limits and gradually reduce them each week. You’ll be surprised how much time suddenly appears for studying, creating, or just resting.

2. Don't go on your phone as soon as you wake up 🙅

Try a 60-minute phone-free window after waking up. Use that time to shower, eat, plan your day, stretch, or journal.

Starting your morning without scrolling helps reduce reliance on your phone and boosts productivity for the rest of the day.

3. Turn your phone off before bed time 😴

The National Sleep Foundation recommends you should stop using your devices at least 30 minutes before you go to bed. Leave your phone in another room or out of reach so you’re not tempted to scroll. Swap doom-scrolling for reading, meditation, yoga, or just winding down properly.

4. Read a book 📚

Nothing is more exciting than finding that book you cannot put down. Let your imagination flow by picking up a book rather than scrolling through social media. This is a great change you can make to your routine to reduce your screen time. 

5. Take breaks from devices 💻

Sometimes we need a break from our devices. Why not try journaling or some mindful exercises to ground yourself and get a new perspective on the way you process your own thoughts. I have benefitted from journaling every morning to get my emotions out and feel fresh for each day.

6. Pick up a new hobby 🏐🎨

With less screen time comes more freedom. Why not finally try that thing you’ve been putting off? Whether it’s baking, painting, dancing, going outside, or joining a society, doing something new can boost confidence and wellbeing.

💡 Did you know? UAL offers a wide range of clubs and societies, a great way to meet people and spend time away from screens.

7. Turn your phone to grey scale

Turning your phone to greyscale in your settings makes apps way less addictive by removing bright colours and visual triggers. Social media suddenly becomes… boring. 

8. Download the app Forest 📲

Forest is an app that helps you stay off your phone while you focus. You plant a virtual tree at the start of a task, and it grows while you stay focused. If you leave the app or get distracted, the tree dies. It might sound a bit silly, but those small visual rewards can be surprisingly motivating. 

👉For more reasons to get outside, join our halls life events!

📸 Image credit: Earth Week 2025 - Nature Walk Photograph - Tika Sufyan