Do you find yourself passing the time by scrolling through social media or binge-watching the latest season of “The Great British Bakeoff?” Don’t get me wrong—I love a good binge. But in an era where everyone has a phone in their pocket, streaming services on demand and a desktop computer or laptop at our fingertips, it’s easy to get attached to the convenience electronic devices provide. And while access to devices have made our lives significantly easier (remember having to print directions before you could drive anywhere, or before that, having to use an actual *gasp* map?!), they also make it easy to dissociate and prevent you from spending more time with people IRL or experiencing the beauty around you.
All the more reason to celebrate the National Day of Unplugging on March 7 by ditching the electronics and focusing on getting in touch with life outside of a screen. Been long enough since you’ve unplugged that you’re not sure what to do? We’ve put together a list of fun things that don’t require an outlet. Whether you want to stay close to home or venture out for a day, these are great ways to get in touch with the world today and every day.
Take a hike
For those of us who call Flagstaff home, we are surrounded by an array of incredible hikes. From longer day hikes (like Kachina Trail or Humphreys Peak) to shorter stints (like Red Mountain or Griffith Spring), there is something for everyone. And for those elsewhere, check out the hikes in your area. Even if you live in a large metropolitan city, you usually don’t have to go far to enjoy a nice outdoor stroll.
Visit a local attraction
Consider this the perfect excuse to play tourist in your own city. If you’re in Flagstaff, take this opportunity to visit the newly expanded Lowell Observatory, make a drive out to Meteor Crater or soak up the wildlife at Bearizona. For those elsewhere, find a local museum or park and explore something new that you’ve had an interest in seeing.
Get creative
More of a homebody and like the idea of staying in? Use this opportunity to do a fun craft (check out this DIY wall hanging), try a new recipe (like these blueberry muffins, potato tacos or mac and “cheez”) or snuggle up with a blanket and new book.
Go for a drive
Whether you want to check out the spring flowers at Snowbowl, the red rocks of Sedona or the majesty of the Grand Canyon, there are plenty of day trips that are a great way to enjoy the beauty around you. Make sure to pack some snacks or a picnic and map out your trip beforehand. If you want to take “unplugging” to the max, go old-school and use a printed map or atlas to make your plans.
Catch up with a friend
Unplugging from electronics doesn’t mean you need to do it alone. Plan a coffee date or lunch with a long-lost friend. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day between work, school, extracurriculars and other life obligations. Use this opportunity to call up that friend you haven’t seen for a few months and plan a much needed catch up.
Join a class
Step out of your comfort zone and join a group class. Whether you decide to get creative and paint or make pottery or get physical and try Pilates or martial arts, it’s not only a great way to unplug but also connect with other people and get a good workout. Some places even offer your first class for free, so you really have nothing to lose!
Whatever you decide to do, make a conscious effort to be present and engage for one hour, five hours or if you’re feeling ambitious, the whole 24 hours. Setting an attainable goal ahead of time will make it easier to plan your day. Your social platforms and email inbox will be there when you’re done, and you’ll be surprised how refreshing it is to unplug—you may even decide to ditch the smartphone altogether.