Meriam Ahmad

This Thanksgiving, I decided to break free from the digital chains, if only for a day, to reconnect with the present moment and savor the Thanksgiving holiday with a newfound mindfulness.

As Thanksgiving approached, I found myself reflecting on the essence of the holiday– gratitude, togetherness, and quality time with loved ones. I couldn’t help but notice how often these precious moments were interrupted by the constant buzz of notifications and the irresistible urge to check emails, social media, and news updates. That’s when the idea of a tech detox took root.

Knowing that a complete digital detox might be unrealistic, I set some ground rules to strike a balance. I decided to turn off non-essential notifications on my phone, avoid social media, and leave my devices in a designated space for the day. The goal was to be present in the moment, engage in meaningful conversations, and fully appreciate the company of family and friends.

On Thanksgiving morning, instead of reaching for my phone to check messages or scroll through social media, I started the day with a moment of reflection and gratitude. I took a few minutes to appreciate the simple joys, the warmth of family, and the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. This conscious start set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

With my phone tucked away, I engaged in activities that didn’t involve screens. We played board games, shared stories, and took a leisurely stroll in the crisp autumn air. The absence of constant digital distractions allowed me to fully immerse myself in the joy of the moment. Conversations were more meaningful, laughter more genuine, and connections more profound.

In a tech-driven world, even our kitchens are not immune to the invasion of screens, with recipe apps and cooking tutorials at our fingertips. For this tech detox day, I opted for the joy of flipping through physical cookbooks, experimenting with recipes without the need for step-by-step online guides. The result was a delicious Thanksgiving feast prepared with a dash of mindfulness.

As the day drew to a close, I resisted the temptation to unwind with a screen in hand. Instead, I opted for a good book, a cozy blanket, and the crackling warmth of a fireplace. The absence of the blue light from screens contributed to a more restful night’s sleep, leaving me feeling refreshed and grateful for the conscious choices made throughout the day.

What an incredible journey it was to embrace a tech detox on Thanksgiving! Rediscovering the magic in genuine connections, mindful moments, and the simple pleasures of life was truly rewarding. If you’re intrigued by the idea of a tech detox and want more insights, don’t forget to check out my article on trying a tech detox during winter break. It’s another adventure worth exploring as we navigate the digital landscape, finding moments of clarity and connection amidst the constant hum of technology. Here’s to more intentional living and embracing the beauty of the unplugged life!