Everyone knows it—scrolling isn’t good for your mental health. In fact, long hours staring at your phone’s screen can also impact your physical health by hampering your sleeping patterns and straining your eyes. If you’re eager to break your habit of immediately turning to your phone to pass time, we’re here to help. Here are some easy ways to spend free time away from your phone!
Invite Your Friends Over
Who needs a group chat when you can hang out in person? Call up your friends, grab some snacks, and spend an evening playing games, cooking together, or just catching up. Socializing is incredibly good for our mental health, and hanging out with people you love will recharge you even if you’re an introvert.
Go for a Walk
Sometimes, the simplest things are the most rewarding. Head outside for a walk, whether it’s a stroll through your neighborhood or a hike on a nearby trail. Leave your phone behind, focus on your surroundings, and soak in the fresh air. Walking clears your mind and helps you connect with the world around you. Plus, it can double as great low-impact exercise, which releases endorphins.
Have an Arts and Crafts Night
Get those creative juices flowing! Set up a crafting corner in your space and pick a project that catches your eye—whether it’s painting, making jewelry, or journaling. Light some candles in some scents that boost creativity, and wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket. Put some music or a show on in the background, and you have the perfect setting for an energizing craft night. By the end of the night, you might surprise yourself with what you’ve made!
Enjoy Comics Instead of Memes
If memes are what keeps bringing you back to your phone, try reading some funnies instead! You can pick up comics at your local library or even subscribe to a magazine to get your daily fix of laughter. Comic strips let you unwind and giggle while giving your brain a break from constant notifications.
Make Cleaning Fun With Podcasts or Music
Okay, cleaning might not sound thrilling, but it can be a fun way to fill your free time by listening to something while you tackle clutter. Blast your favorite playlist or turn on a podcast you’re excited about. A rhythm or a good story in your earbuds can turn a dull chore into something oddly engaging. Before you know it, your space will feel fresh, and you’ll have accomplished something productive.
Attend a Community Event
Check out what’s happening in your area—there’s almost always something cool to do! Here are just a few options to look into:
- local fairs
- farmers’ markets
- open-mic nights
- karaoke
- trivia
- pop-up exhibits
- library lectures
- art classes
- movies in the park
- and so much more!
Community events help you meet new people and experience something unique. Bring a friend or go solo. Either way, you’ll make memories that don’t rely on your phone.
Breaking away from your screen doesn’t have to be boring or difficult. These fun ideas offer impactful ways to spend free time away from your phone while helping you reconnect with yourself, others, and the world around you. Give one (or all) of these a try—you might just discover your new favorite hobby!