It’s so easy to get sucked into our phones during our free time.
With the average adult spending at least seven hours per day on a screen, it seems almost contradictory that we gravitate towards screens in our own free time. Social media plays a huge part, and so does the role of dopamine. The more we scroll, the better it feels.
But there’s also a case for forgotten traditional hobbies too. No matter how far away your lost interests feel, it’s never too late to turn things around and reclaim your free time.
- Enforce phone-free periods
Starting small is the best way to kick any habit.
When it comes to free time, getting rid of your phone is going to feel difficult at first. This is why you should commence with just a small window enforced away from your phone every day.
This could be just 5, 10 or 15 minutes, maybe even longer if you’re feeling confident. You should try to keep the phone physically away from you, perhaps in a locked box or another room.
During this time, you could read a book talk, to someone in the house, or simply keep your brain busy with a puzzle. This part of the process is all about realising just how distracted you’ve become.
It might feel uncomfortable and you might find yourself feeling restless, or even unable to stop thinking about the notifications that might be waiting for you. Just hang tight and trust the process.
- Rediscover low-stakes hobbies
Amid our tech-heavy routines, it can be refreshing to return to hobbies that don’t demand high levels of skill. Activities like sketching or picking up a deck of cards could tick the right boxes.
When you approach these games just for enjoyment, without the internal pressure to ‘win’ or be productive, they become a source of relaxation rather than stress.
For example, trying one of the latest bingo offers can be a great way to unwind, especially when you’re not focused on high-stakes competition. These hobbies allow you to embrace the process rather than the outcome, giving you the freedom to play at your own pace and enjoy the moment.
They also give you a space to simply have fun. There’s no need to master complex strategies or rush through a game.
- Spend time outdoors
Finally, just getting outside is often enough to give us a new perspective.
Many hobbies centre around technology and competition, so sometimes it can be nice and rewarding to lift off the pressure and give yourself a break with some fresh air.
Whether you go to a National Trust landmark with your family or simply take a stroll through the park, the benefits of being out in nature are profound. You will feel calm and appreciative, especially if the weather is sunny.
It’s also highly beneficial for our mental and physical wellbeing to get moving around. Walking is brilliant for circulatory health and can boost fitness, even if you only get out every now and then.
Ready to change the way that your free time looks? When you make a conscious effort to be present in the moment, you might be surprised at how relaxing and satisfying these moments can become.
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