Today, we held a digital detox workshop, and for my well-being, it was a much-needed escape from the screens that had been ruling my life. Lately, it seemed like I couldn’t go an hour without checking my phone or replying to emails. The constant barrage of notifications and the never-ending stream of information had taken a toll on my mental health. So, when the opportunity to participate in a digital detox workshop came along, I eagerly signed up.
I could feel a sense of anticipation and excitement in the air. A diverse group of people had gathered, all seeking respite from the digital overload that had become an integral part of our lives. Our guide for the day, Naz Fulya Çibik, encouraged us to switch off our devices and put them away. It felt strange at first, like I was disconnecting from a lifeline, but soon, a sense of liberation washed over me.
Naz Fulya Çibik led us into a lush forested area just a short walk from the workshop venue. The moment I stepped into the forest, I could feel the change in the atmosphere. The air was fresher, and the sounds of leaves rustling and birds chirping were like a soothing symphony. It was amazing how quickly nature embraced us, offering a refuge from the constant digital chatter.
During the workshop, we engaged in various activities that allowed us to reconnect with the natural world and disconnect from our screens. As we immersed ourselves in these activities, I realized just how rarely I took the time to unplug and truly connect with the world around me. The tranquility of the forest, the rustling leaves, and the melodic bird songs transported me to a different world. For those few moments, I forgot about my emails, social media, and the constant pressure to be connected. Instead, I focused on the beauty of the natural world and the peace it offered.
As the workshop came to an end, I felt rejuvenated and more grounded than I had in a long time. It was a reminder that taking a break from the digital world, even for a short while, could work wonders for our well-being. I left with a renewed sense of balance and a commitment to incorporating more digital detox moments into my daily life. After all, the forest had taught me that sometimes, the best way to find inner peace is to disconnect from the screens and listen to the soothing sounds of nature.
Eyüp Şen
DigiWELL Project Coordinator in MSKU
