The Joy of Reading: Rediscovering the Simple Pleasure

There’s something undeniably comforting about getting lost in a good book. While I’ve always considered myself an avid reader, it wasn’t until a recent period of illness and rest that I truly rediscovered the joy of reading. When you’re unwell, the world slows down, and in the stillness, books offer not just a form of escape, but also a source of relaxation and mental stimulation. 

I’ve primarily shifted to using my Kindle over the years, simply because it’s convenient and portable. But being gifted a physical book recently reminded me of the tangible delight that comes with holding a book in your hands—the feel of the pages, the smell of the paper, and the satisfying sound of each page turning. There’s a different kind of magic in a printed book, one that connects us with the simplicity of storytelling. 

While reading fiction allows us to immerse ourselves in another world, non-fiction stimulates our minds in different ways. The science behind reading is fascinating. Studies show that reading fiction can improve empathy, as it lets us experience the emotions and perspectives of different characters. It’s like a workout for our brain, enhancing our ability to understand others and ourselves. Non-fiction, on the other hand, offers knowledge and mental engagement, giving us new information and helping us think critically about the world. 

Reading has always been more than just a hobby for me. From a young age, I devoured books, and as I think back on my childhood, the Laura Ingalls Wilder series stands out as a personal favourite. Those stories filled my childhood with adventure, and much to my children’s despair, I couldn’t help but introduce them to the Little House books too. They may have rolled their eyes, but I’d like to think I passed on the gift of reading to them in some way. 

Being married to an author, books are naturally a significant part of my life. However, it’s easy to take the simple joy of reading for granted. We live in a world where content is constantly streaming from every device, and books sometimes feel like a forgotten treasure. But there’s a deep satisfaction that comes from sitting outside on a sunny Perth afternoon, a gentle breeze brushing past, and being completely absorbed in a story. In moments like these, it feels like everything falls into place. 

Reading has long been known to bring immense benefits to our wellbeing. It can reduce stress, improve focus, and even help us sleep better. More than that, it offers us moments of reflection and peace. During my recent rest, I found that books became a gentle companion, a way to relax and unwind without the constant bombardment of screens and distractions. 

For me, rediscovering the joy of reading was like reconnecting with an old friend. It reminded me of the beauty in taking time out, letting your mind wander, and allowing yourself to get lost in the pages of a book. In a world that often feels fast paced and overwhelming, there’s something truly special about the quiet, immersive joy that reading offers. And sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the best way to live. 

Prioritising Sleep Hygiene: My Journey to Better Rest and Health

Recently, I faced a wake-up call—literally and figuratively. Despite diligently following many of the strategies from my self reflections “Let’s Thrive in 2025” that I have already shared, I became very physically unwell. It was a humbling experience that made me reflect deeply on my own wellbeing. Through this, I discovered that while I had made improvements in many areas of my life, my rest wasn’t as good as it should have been. I wasn’t giving sleep the respect it deserved, and my health suffered as a result. 

As I delved into the science behind sleep, I was struck by how central quality sleep is to our overall health. Studies show that sleep affects everything from our energy and mood to cognitive function and immune health. Getting the right amount of sleep is linked to a lower risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes, and it helps us build resilience to stress. After learning this, improving my sleep became a top priority. 

Thankfully, by implementing four simple practices, I’ve increased my nightly sleep from just 5.5 hours to over 7.5 hours—and I’m on track to reach the full 9 hours soon. These changes have made a remarkable difference. Not only have I recovered my health, but I now make it a point to ensure I get the sleep I need every night. The impact has been profound: more energy, better concentration, and a clearer sense of wellbeing. 

Here is what I have done: 

Step 1: Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule 

One of the first things I did was establish a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day—even on weekends (even though 6am does seem too early on Saturday or Sunday …listening to the birds as the sun rises with a hot peppermint tea is delightful!) — this routine helps regulate the body’s internal clock. This makes it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally. Science shows that consistency in sleep patterns helps improve the overall quality of sleep. It is taking time for my body to adjust; however it is becoming easier to fall asleep, and I wake up feeling more refreshed. 

Step 2: Create a Calming Pre-Sleep Routine 

A pre-sleep routine has become an essential part of my evening. I spend 30 minutes before bed winding down— by having a turmeric latte, reading, doing light stretches, or practicing mindfulness. Research backs up the importance of a relaxing pre-sleep routine, as it reduces stress and signals to the brain that it’s time to rest. This routine has made it much easier to transition from the busyness of the day into a restful state. 

Step 3: Limit Screen Time Before Bed 

Like many people, I used to spend time on my phone or laptop before bed. I’ve since cut down on screen time in the hour leading up to sleep. Blue light from screens can interfere with melatonin production, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. Reducing screen time has made a noticeable difference—now I fall asleep faster, and my sleep feels deeper and more restorative. 

Step 4: Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment 

Finally, I transformed my bedroom into a true sleep sanctuary. I changed the picture on the wall and as hard as it can be in summer in Perth I have made sure it was cool, quiet, and dark, and invested in quality bedding. A comfortable sleep environment is critical for good rest, and studies show that these factors contribute significantly to improving sleep quality. 

While I’m still finding my ideal sleep amount, it’s important to acknowledge that sleep needs vary with age. As we grow older, the amount of sleep we require changes. The National Sleep Foundation provides guidelines based on age: 

• Newborns (0–3 months): 14–17 hours
• Infants (4–11 months): 12–15 hours
• Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours
• Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours
• School-age children (6–13 years): 9–11 hours
• Teenagers (14–17 years): 8–10 hours
• Adults (18–64 years): 7–9 hours
• Older adults (65+ years): 7–8 hours

As we age, our sleep needs slightly decrease, but the importance of quality sleep never diminishes. By ensuring I now get my required 7.5 hours—and aiming for 9—I feel healthier, stronger, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. 

Prioritising sleep has been a transformative part of my wellbeing journey and in my physical recovery. Sleep is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. I encourage you to take stock of your own rest and make small adjustments where needed. Together, let’s make thriving in 2025 a reality by starting with the foundation of good health: a good night’s sleep. 

Decluttering for Mental Clarity:  The psychological benefits of tidying up your space

As we age, we come to realise that possessions aren’t the be all and end all. In our younger years, we tend to accumulate things, believing they’ll bring happiness or reflect success. But over time, we learn that the real value in life is in experiences and relationships, not in the things we own. This shift in perspective can be freeing, but it also requires patience and compassion as we navigate the process of letting go.  

Growing up, I experienced firsthand how clutter can take over a space—and a life. A family member hoarded for years, filling entire rooms to the point where you couldn’t even sit down. That experience left a deep fear in me that my own home could end up the same way: cluttered, chaotic, and overwhelming. Even though I try to stay on top of things, that anxiety still lingers. For me, clutter is more than just a mess; it’s a reminder of how easily life can feel out of control. 

The science behind decluttering shows that it’s not just about having a tidy home—it’s about improving our mental health. Research has shown that clutter overstimulates the brain, leading to increased stress and difficulty concentrating. Clutter acts like visual noise, constantly reminding us of unfinished tasks and overwhelming our minds. When we clear physical clutter, we make space for mental clarity, allowing us to breathe easier and feel more in control. 

I’ve discovered that having a clear, uncluttered workspace, especially my desk, makes a real difference in how I feel. When my desk is clear, with just a few essentials and minimal ornaments, I notice that my mind feels clearer too. Now, I’m not saying this automatically makes me more productive, but it does improve my overall wellbeing. A tidy desk seems to create a mental environment where I can focus better, and I feel far more effective in my work. Whether or not this is backed by hard evidence, I know that for me, it creates a sense of calm and control. 

One decluttering method I’ve recently found helpful is the “Swedish death clean.” While the name might sound grim, the concept is quite the opposite. It’s about gradually simplifying our belongings so that we—and eventually our loved ones—aren’t burdened by an overwhelming amount of stuff. It’s a gentle, thoughtful way of decluttering over time. 

I’ve found that starting small is key, especially when the idea of tackling an entire room feels overwhelming. Whether it’s sorting through one drawer or spending just 10 minutes tidying up, these small actions add up. Each step brings a sense of accomplishment and relief, helping to ease the anxiety that clutter can create. 

Here are a few simple steps that have helped me along the way: 

1. Start with a small space. Pick one drawer or shelf to organise instead of trying to declutter an entire room at once. 
2. Sort items into categories: keep, donate, discard. Be honest about what you truly use and what’s just taking up space. 
3. Set a timer for 10 minutes. This helps to avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensures you make steady progress without burning out. 
4. Adopt a “one in, one out” rule. For every new item you bring into your home, let go of something you no longer need. 
5. Use the Swedish death clean mindset. Ask yourself whether you’d want your loved ones to deal with this item if you weren’t around. 

 Be gentle with yourself as you go through this process. Decluttering can bring up emotions, especially when you’ve lived with clutter or fear that it could take over. But each small step towards creating a clearer space, both physically and mentally, is a step towards a lighter, more peaceful life. And that’s a gift worth working towards. 

Breathing Exercises for Stress Relief: A Simple Tool to Manage Anxiety

In the fast pace of everyday life, stress and anxiety often catch us off guard. For a long time, I’d find myself feeling anxious before bed, my mind racing with the day’s events or what tomorrow might bring. But over time, I discovered a simple, powerful tool to help manage this anxiety—deep breathing. What started as a nightly routine to calm my mind before sleep has become something I now use throughout the day to stay centred, present, and in control. 

The science behind breathing exercises is truly remarkable. When we’re stressed, our body automatically goes into fight-or-flight mode. This response, while designed to protect us, can feel overwhelming—our heart races, our breathing becomes shallow, and tension builds in our muscles. However, deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts these stress responses, allowing our body to calm down. 

When we take slow, deep breaths, we signal to our brain that we’re safe. This helps regulate our heart rate, reduce the production of stress hormones, and bring us back to a state of calm. It’s incredible how something as simple as controlling your breath can have such a profound effect on your mental state. 

For me, this practice started small. I began by focusing on my breathing before sleep, inhaling deeply through my nose for a count of four, holding for four, and exhaling slowly through my mouth for another count of four. I noticed how it helped me fall asleep faster and feel more relaxed at night. But soon, I realised this wasn’t just a nighttime tool—it was something I could use anytime I felt anxiety creeping in. 

Now, whenever I feel myself entering fight-or-flight mode—whether it’s during a busy workday, in a stressful meeting, or just navigating everyday challenges—I pause and return to my breath. This practice has helped me break the cycle of stress, bringing me back to the present moment. It’s an easy, effective way to manage anxiety and stay grounded, no matter the situation. 

By incorporating deep breathing into my day-to-day routine, I’ve found more balance and calm in my life. It’s a simple tool, but one that I’d encourage anyone to try—because taking a moment to breathe can truly change how we face stress. 

Creating a Gratitude Journal: My Early Journey to Better Wellbeing

If you have been reading these reflections over the last few weeks you may have noticed that I have finally realised how busy my life has become and introducing simple mindful practices are making a real difference to my wellbeing. This week I want to look at gratitude journals and what I have found to help me thrive in 2025.  

In the fast-paced chaos of everyday life, particularly when stress is high, it’s all too easy to overlook the small joys around us. Whether it’s pressures from work, family commitments, or just the general busyness of life, I often find myself caught up in the negatives. Lately, though, I’ve turned to something simple yet effective keeping a gratitude journal. While I’m still in the early stages of this practice, I’ve already noticed a shift in my mindset, with an improvement in my positivity and how I approach each day. 

Gratitude journaling is something I’ve heard about for a while, but, like many, I wasn’t convinced at first. It sounded almost too easy to be effective—just writing down a few positive things each day? However, I decided to give it a try, and now, I’m starting to understand why this practice is backed by science. 

Each evening, I take a few minutes to write down three things I’m grateful for. It could be something small, like enjoying a cup of tea, a kind text from a friend, or the feeling of sunshine on a cool morning. At first, I had to really think about what to write, but now I’m finding it easier to recognise these moments throughout the day. In the midst of stress or frustration, I’m noticing the positives, which is already helping me feel more balanced and optimistic. 

What I’ve found fascinating is the science behind why this works. Gratitude journaling taps into something called neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new connections. When we practice gratitude, we’re essentially training our brain to focus more on positive experiences and less on the negative. Over time, this helps to shift our thinking patterns, making it easier to notice the good things in life, even when times are tough. 

Research shows that consistent gratitude practice can actually change how our brain functions. Dr. Robert Emmons, a leading US expert in this field, has shown that gratitude can improve our emotional wellbeing, boost empathy, and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress. The act of simply reflecting on what we’re thankful for activates the brain’s reward system, helping to foster a sense of happiness and contentment. 

 Studies also highlight how gratitude impacts the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and emotional regulation. This is why gratitude journaling doesn’t just give a temporary boost in mood—it can lead to long-term improvements in how we handle stress and difficult situations. 

Although I’m still at the beginning of this journey, the benefits are becoming clear. On days when work is overwhelming or life throws a few unexpected challenges my way, taking a moment to reflect on what I’m grateful for has helped me regain perspective. It’s not that these challenges disappear, but focusing on the good—no matter how small—has shifted my mindset. I’m finding myself less bogged down by stress and more able to appreciate the positive moments that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. 

When I first started, it felt a bit forced. Some days, I struggled to think of things to be grateful for, particularly when the day had been stressful. But, as I’ve continued, it’s becoming easier. I’ve noticed that during the day, I’m more aware of small moments of joy, even in the middle of a busy or difficult period. Whether it’s a simple moment of peace or a shared laugh, these small acts of gratitude are adding up. 

I’m still learning, and there’s much more to explore in this practice, but I’m already seeing how gratitude journaling can help shift my mindset. By taking just five minutes each evening to jot down three things I’m grateful for, I’ve started to feel more present and more positive about my day, even when it’s been challenging. 

It’s a work in progress, but already, this practice is teaching me that even amidst life’s challenges, we can always find something to be thankful for. And that, I’m discovering, is a powerful way to boost positivity and wellbeing. 

Self-Care in the Workplace: Simple Strategies I am trying make part of my day

“Self-care”. It’s a bit of a buzzword these days, but it’s something I’ve come to realise is essential for getting through the workday—and not just surviving but thriving. The truth is, we spend most of our waking hours at work, so if we’re not looking after ourselves while we’re there, it’s no wonder we burn out. It’s taken me years to get this right and is still a work in progress. However, once I started incorporating self-care into my daily routine, it has made a world of difference.

For years, I used to power through the day, ticking off tasks, chugging coffee, eating chocolate and thinking I could relax when I got home. But that mindset leaves little room for recovery, and I ended up feeling drained long after I clocked off. It wasn’t just me—I’ve seen team members go through the same thing. In Australia, one in five of us will experience a mental health condition in any given year. The workplace isn’t separate from that; in fact, stress at work can be a major contributing factor. Hence the inclusion on of psycho safety in the workplace.

The more I looked into self care, the more I realised that looking after yourself at work isn’t just about reducing stress—it’s about being a better, healthier version of yourself. This benefits everyone around you, including our team. So, here are a few strategies that have worked for me:

1. Take Proper Breaks

This sounds obvious, but it’s something many of us overlook. Research shows that regular breaks increase productivity and improve mental well-being. I’ve made a habit of setting a timer to remind me to step away from the desk every couple of hours. A short walk around the office, outside or simple stretch, or even just staring out the window for five minutes can do wonders. The Pomodoro Technique—working in focused intervals with breaks in between—has helped me stay on track without burning out.

2. Move Your Body

We weren’t made to sit at a desk all day. I’ve started incorporating small amounts of movement into my workday. Whether it’s standing up while on the phone, doing some light stretches at my desk, or taking the stairs, it all adds up. Studies suggest that even low levels of physical activity during the workday can reduce stress and improve mood. Plus, it keeps me energised through that dreaded afternoon slump and away from chocolate bars!

3. Check In with Your Team

Self-care isn’t just an individual task. It’s also about creating a supportive environment. I’ve found that checking in with my teammates, even informally, makes a big difference. A quick “How are you going?” can open the door for a genuine conversation about how they’re feeling. Working the in the Mental Health Sector we encourage open discussions about mental health in the workplace, and I’ve seen firsthand how much it can help to build a culture where everyone feels supported.

4. Set Boundaries

This is one I’ve struggled with, but it’s a game-changer! Setting clear boundaries—both with myself and others—means I don’t check emails after hours. Research shows that constant connectivity can lead to higher stress levels, so it’s crucial to create some space between work and personal life. Working from home can sometimes complicate this however taking the time to switch off properly allows me to return the next day feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges ahead.

5. Practice Gratitude

As mentioned in last week’s blog gratitude is great for our wellbeing…. Although this takes a little time each day, I’ve found it some beneficial.  Taking a minute at the end of each workday to reflect on what went well, no matter how small. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can increase happiness and overall life satisfaction. For me, it’s been a great way to stay positive, even on those tough days when everything seems to be going wrong.

Incorporating self-care into the workday doesn’t require massive changes or extra time. Simple, evidence-based strategies like taking breaks, moving your body, checking in with our team, setting boundaries, and practising gratitude can all help you stay healthy and productive. At the end of the day, looking after ourselves—and each other—isn’t just good for business, it’s vital for our well-being.

The Power of Gratitude: How Thankfulness Improves Wellbeing

In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget how powerful a simple “thank you” can be. Taking a moment to express gratitude, whether it’s through words or gestures, makes a real difference—not just for others, but for our own wellbeing too.

Gratitude isn’t just polite—it’s about genuinely recognising and appreciating the efforts and kindness of the people around us. Research shows that regularly expressing gratitude can boost our mental health, helping us feel more connected, reduce stress, and improve our overall happiness. I’ve noticed this myself. Whether it’s thanking a colleague for their help or appreciating a friend’s support, it always leaves me feeling more positive and grounded.

One of the things I’ve realised is that when I focus on gratitude, it shifts my perspective. On difficult days, instead of dwelling on what went wrong, I try to notice the small acts of kindness—like a friendly chat with a stranger or a thoughtful message from a friend. These moments may seem small, but they remind me there’s always something to be thankful for, and this change in mindset helps me feel calmer and more content.

Showing gratitude also creates a ripple effect. When I take time to thank others, it not only makes them feel good but often inspires more kindness in return. I’ve seen this in my own life—whether at work or with family or friends, those small moments of appreciation build stronger relationships.

Kindness and gratitude naturally go hand in hand. A kind gesture often sparks gratitude, and in return, acknowledging that kindness encourages more positive interactions.

I’ve have tried to build a habit to express gratitude in simple ways:

• At work: A quick, genuine thank you to a colleague can make a huge difference in both our days.
• Messages of appreciation: Sending a text to a friend or loved one, just to say thanks for being there, its so good to know someone cares.
• Compliments: Whether it’s complimenting a friend or a stranger, I’ve found it brings an instant lift to both of us. If I see a stranger at the mall in a pretty dress, I comment how nice it looks. Try it – everyone smiles!

Incorporating gratitude into our daily routines doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about noticing those small acts of kindness and taking a moment to express our thanks. These small gestures can lift others’ spirits and improve our own sense of wellbeing.

So, why not start today? By embracing gratitude, we can all make our days—and the days of those around us—just that little bit brighter.

The Power of Nature Walks – its magical!

There’s something magical about stepping into nature and leaving behind the busyness of daily life. Today’s walk at Herdsman Lake reminded me how powerful it can be to take time outdoors and reconnect with the world around us. Watching Black Swans glide peacefully across the water, Pelicans floating by, and Ibis wading in the reeds brought a sense of calm and clarity.

Beyond the beauty, science backs up what we feel—spending time in nature is incredibly beneficial for our mental health. Studies show that just two hours a week outdoors can significantly improve well-being. Whether it’s a stroll in a local park or a weekend hike, being surrounded by nature helps ease anxiety, boost mood, and even improve concentration.

For me, Herdsman Lake is easily accessible and has become a sanctuary. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or drained, a walk here brings immediate relief. The wide-open spaces, rustling trees, and calming flow of the lake work wonders. Watching the birds and the quiet rhythm of nature reminds me that there’s always peace to be found if we take the time to notice it.

So, the science says that nature walks aren’t just an escape—they build long-term resilience. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and physical movement recharges both body and mind. Being in nature also helps put things in perspective. Observing the simple, harmonious lives of animals, or the changing seasons, shifts focus away from everyday worries. It’s a grounding experience that offers mental clarity.

Today’s walk brought all of this into focus. The birds flying over the water, the gentle sounds of the wind—everything felt peaceful, and the tiger snakes stayed hidden was a relief!

As the research suggests that as little as two hours a week in nature is enough it doesn’t require a long hike, or hours spent in the wilderness; even short walks can make a difference. The key is consistency, whether it’s a daily 20-minute walk or a couple of longer strolls on the weekend.

Making time for nature may feel like a luxury, but I have found it’s worth it. These walks aren’t just a break—they’re a way to stay grounded, balanced, and mentally strong. For me, they are fast becoming a vital part of my routine, a habit that really supports my well-being.

If you ever feel overwhelmed or need space to breathe, I completely recommend a walk in nature. It’s a small habit with big rewards, and there’s always something to see, hear, and experience if we just take the time.

Trying Breathing Techniques Before Sleep: A Down-to-Earth Guide

Have you ever found yourself lying awake, staring at the ceiling, and wondering why your brain seems to have turned into a late-night radio show? Trust me, I’ve been there. After countless nights of restless tossing and turning replaying my day, I decided to try something a bit different: a simple breathing technique before bed. And what do you know? It’s been a game changer.

At first, the idea sounded a bit too basic. I mean, how could something as simple as controlled breathing really make a difference when your mind’s busy replaying every cringe-worthy moment of the day? But desperate times call for desperate measures, right? So, I decided to give it a go.

The process was straightforward. Instead of reaching for my phone or resorting to counting sheep (which, let’s be honest, never really seemed to work), I started focusing on my breath. I lay quietly in bed, closed my eyes, and simply began to slow down my breathing. In through my nose to fill my abdomen and then out through my mouth to release all tension from the day. Nice and steady. It wasn’t a magic pill or a fancy meditation app—it was just me, my breath, and a few minutes of peace.

The first night was a bit of an experiment. I set aside time to practise a couple of breathing exercises before sleep and even tried them out when I woke up in the middle of the night. I was pleasantly surprised to find that these simple techniques helped calm my mind, allowing me to drift back off without the usual frustration. It was as if my body was gently reminded that it was time to rest, not to overthink every little thing.

Now, I’m not suggesting that I suddenly became a breathing guru overnight. It takes a bit of practice and a willingness to let go of that incessant inner chatter. But if you’re anything like me—constantly battling the “insomnia monster”—this little trick might just be worth a go. Over time, I’ve noticed not only a better quality of sleep but also a more relaxed state of mind throughout the day. It’s amazing what a few mindful breaths can do for your overall well-being.

What’s even better is that it doesn’t require any fancy gadgets or a significant change to your routine. It’s cost-free, accessible, and can be done anywhere, anytime you need to reset. Plus, it gives you a moment of genuine self-care—an opportunity to pause, breathe, and simply be. And let’s be honest, in our busy lives, that is a rare luxury indeed.

So next time you find yourself wide awake at 3 a.m. with your brain running a marathon of thoughts, why not try some breathing techniques? It might sound a bit weird at first, but I promise it’s worth a try. After all, if counting sheep isn’t doing the trick, maybe it’s time to give your lungs a go instead. Who knew that something as simple as a few deep breaths could be the secret to a good night’s sleep?

Why not give it a try—you might just find that the simple act of breathing can lead to more peaceful nights and brighter mornings. Wishing you a better night’s sleep and a calmer mind!

After mindful mornings I am looking at digital detox

As we enter the second month of 2025, I am committed to thrive in 2025 – not just getting through each week but really embracing new ways to care for my body and mind. Each week, I’ll be exploring and introducing a new self-care concept, and this week’s focus is on the idea of a digital detox.

In our hyper-connected world, we rely on our devices for nearly everything—from communication to entertainment to work. But while technology certainly makes life easier in many ways, it can also overwhelm us, draining our energy, focus, and even joy. I’ve been reflecting on how often we mindlessly reach for our phones, check emails, or scroll social media without even realizing it. This got me thinking about the concept of a digital detox—an intentional break from screens, social media, and the constant influx of information.

What does a digital detox look like? It doesn’t have to mean giving up technology entirely for days or weeks at a time. Even taking a few minutes each day to step away from digital devices can create a noticeable shift in our well-being. For some, a detox might look like setting boundaries around screen time—perhaps choosing to switch off all notifications after a certain time in the evening. For others, it could mean dedicating one day a week to being completely device-free. The beauty of this practice is that it can be tailored to fit our individual needs and lifestyles.

There is compelling evidence to support the benefits of a digital detox. Studies show that excessive screen time is linked to increased stress, anxiety, and poor sleep quality. Reducing our time online, even in small doses, can lead to improved concentration, enhanced mood, and more restful sleep. Importantly, it can also help us reconnect with the present moment, strengthening our relationships and increasing mindfulness. When we’re not distracted by our devices, we can truly engage with the people and activities around us.

Personally, I’m curious about the long-term benefits of integrating this into my routine, especially as someone who works in a fast-paced, digital-heavy environment. This week, I’ll be trying out a few different strategies to find what works for me. One simple step I’m starting with is designating the first hour of my morning and the last hour before bed as screen-free zones. This gives me space to begin and end my day with intention, rather than being bombarded by emails or social media.

Another approach I’m exploring is setting aside one evening a week for a “digital-free” date with myself (and possibly my husband!). Whether I use this time to read, take a walk, or enjoy dinner without distractions, the idea is to be fully present and give my mind a chance to reset.

If you’re considering your own digital detox, I encourage you to start small. Try putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb” for short stretches or set time limits on apps that tend to eat away at your focus. The key is consistency—making these small steps part of your regular self-care routine.

In 2025, I’m determined to thrive, and I believe that stepping back from the digital world, even briefly, is one way we can all start to reclaim our time, attention, and peace. Let’s embrace this journey together.