what i learned from participating in an offline challenge
I participated in a 24-hour offline challenge hosted by The Offline Club this past weekend. Here’s what I learned:
Constant stimulation from the internet, emails, endless screen time, doomscrolling, mobile phones, etc flattens memory. This has been further proven by researchers at Stanford and UCLA, who found that when the brain is overloaded it stops forming deep memories and fewer memories make time feel shorter.
Interruptions break continuity. Think of every distraction and interruption created as a result of your technology. These pings, dings, refreshing, switching, and constant scrolling hinders your brain’s ability to build long timelines.
Technology, and our constant connection to it, can contribute to information/digital overload, lack of novelty, stress, and anxiety.
An over reliance on your tech devices can rewire your brain through a process called neuroplasticity and not in a good way. This rewiring of neural pathways impacts everything from memory to emotional well-being. Research also shows us that scrolling through social media triggers a release of dopamine releases in your brain, creating a reward loop similar to gambling that keeps you coming back for more. Over time, this can desensitize your brain’s reward system, making it harder to find joy in offline activities.
Excessive use can speed up cognitive decline and literally shrink your brain, reducing amounts of cranial gray matter that houses neurons responsible for performing the majority of our mental processing (Johns Hopkins University, 2021).
Time slows down when your brain experiences presence, intention, novelty, adventure, and deep focus. When I went on a walk (without my phone), I noticed things more and experienced far more awe than if I had been checking my text messages or emails. I also spent more time doing the things that bring me deep joy: cooking, baking, painting, reading (a physical book), catching up with my husband, savouring a meal together with family, playing with our dog, Harry….the list goes on. And you know what? The day felt longer, in the best way possible.
If you can take a break from your devices for a day, an hour, or even a few minutes you will notice improvements in every aspect of your life, including sleep, your relationships with others, your body (combatting things like eye strain, headaches, and “tech neck”), and your mind.
Have you participated in an offline challenge before? Are you planning on spending more or less time on your digital devices in 2026?
~Kate
The information provided by Rooted in Wellness Canada is solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you are struggling, you are advised to consult with your physician or other medical professionals.
