In our hyper-connected world, the constant barrage of information can lead to stress and anxiety. A growing trend is the practice of digital detoxes—intentional breaks from digital devices to promote mindfulness and mental clarity. Studies have linked excessive social media use to anxiety and depression, making digital detoxes a valuable tool for improving mental health.
Let’s be real. We’re juggling so much—family, work, friendships, church, and everything in between. And as if that’s not enough, our phones, laptops, and social media keep tugging at us like toddlers who won’t stop pulling at our skirts. It’s exhausting. I know you’ve felt that constant buzz of notifications, the endless scrolls, and the pressure to keep up. But what if I told you that stepping away from it all for a moment could bring you more peace than you’ve felt in a long time?
We’ve gotten so used to being “plugged in” that we forget the power of unplugging. This isn’t just about turning off your devices; it’s about creating room for God to move in your heart and mind without distraction. It’s about reclaiming the clarity and calm that’s been buried under all the noise.
Why We Need a Digital Detox
Let’s break it down. We were not created to consume this much information all day, every day. Think about it: we check emails before we pray, scroll Instagram instead of meditating on the Word, and spend more time looking at other people’s lives than reflecting on our own. It’s no wonder so many of us feel anxious, overwhelmed, and disconnected from God.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything, there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” God designed seasons of rest, focus, and purpose in our lives. But when we’re constantly plugged into digital distractions, we miss those moments of divine rest and clarity. A digital detox isn’t about rejecting technology altogether—it’s about using it wisely and allowing space for what really matters.
How Technology Impacts Us
Let’s talk about how this constant connectivity messes with our mental and emotional well-being. Studies show that too much screen time is linked to anxiety, depression, and even sleep problems. And spiritually? It’s like we’re trying to hear God whisper while standing in the middle of a noisy crowd.
Psalm 46:10 reminds us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stillness is where God meets us, but how often are we truly still? If our minds are always racing with what’s happening online, how can we hear His voice? A digital detox helps us quiet the noise so we can truly connect with Him.
Signs You Need a Digital Detox
- You feel anxious or irritable when you’re away from your phone.
- You wake up and immediately check your notifications.
- You compare your life to others on social media.
- You struggle to focus or feel restless during prayer or quiet time.
- If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to take a step back.
Two Action Steps to Detox Digitally
Set Sacred Hours for Unplugging
Just like we tithe our money, let’s tithe our time. Dedicate specific hours of your day to be screen-free. Start small—maybe the first hour in the morning or the last hour before bed. During this time, pray, journal, or simply sit in silence and let God minister to your heart.
One of my favorite practices is to take my Bible and a notebook outside, even if it’s just on the porch. The fresh air clears my head, and without my phone buzzing, I can fully focus on what God is saying to me. This step may feel strange at first because we’re so used to filling every quiet moment with scrolling, but stick with it. You’ll find your mind becoming clearer and your spirit more at peace.
Replace Screen Time with Soul Time
Instead of spending 30 minutes scrolling social media, use that time to feed your spirit. Read a chapter of Proverbs, listen to a worship playlist, or call a friend to pray together. When we replace mindless scrolling with intentional connection—whether with God or with people who uplift us—we nourish our souls in ways a screen never can.
Remember, detoxing doesn’t mean abandoning all your apps and devices forever. It’s about being intentional with your time and choosing what builds you up instead of what wears you down.
The Christian Perspective on Digital Detox
Let’s take it a step deeper. Jesus often withdrew from the crowds to be alone with God. Luke 5:16 tells us, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” If the Savior of the world needed time away from distractions to connect with the Father, how much more do we?
A digital detox isn’t just trendy—it’s biblical. It’s a way to create room for God to restore our minds, renew our spirits, and remind us of our worth. You don’t need social media likes to validate you. You’re already fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
When we unplug from the digital world, we’re reminded that our value isn’t in followers, filters, or flashy posts. Our worth comes from the One who created us in His image.
My Own Detox Experience
Let me share something personal. A few months ago, I felt so drained from constantly being online. I was scrolling through social media late into the night, waking up tired, and feeling this unshakable pressure to keep up. Then, one day, I hit pause.
For a week, I deleted my social media apps and spent that time with God. At first, I felt restless—like I was missing out. But by the end of the week, I realized what I had been missing wasn’t online. It was the peace and clarity that comes from being present with God and the people I love.
Now, I make it a point to take regular breaks from my phone. It’s not always easy, but the peace I’ve gained is worth it.
Your Turn to Unplug
You don’t have to do this perfectly. Start where you are. Maybe it’s just an hour a day, or maybe you need a weekend to unplug and recharge. Whatever it looks like for you, trust that God will meet you in that space.
Remember: You’re not alone in this. We’re all trying to balance life, faith, and technology. But when we choose to step away from the noise and focus on God, we reclaim the mental clarity and peace we’ve been searching for.
So, what’s stopping you? Put the phone down, take a deep breath, and let God speak to your heart. The world will still be there when you come back—but you’ll be stronger, clearer, and more at peace.
Let’s detox together, sis. You’ve got this.
With Love & Support,
Dr. Monica
#love2life