Social Detox

The year is coming to an end and it’s been a while since I last wrote on this blog. In fact not once during the last couple of years! I wasn’t taking a break from the “web” or from my daily work. And I did miss writing to this, besides it was a bit frustrating. But what I intend in writing today is to enlighten how the opposite of it could be rewarding and is sought after by an increasing number of individuals.

“Social Detox” (reduced from Social Media Detoxification) is what I’m referring to. The word social has an interesting meaning in this day and age. It’s often perceived as social media and the interactions thereof, especially in internet jargon. The widespread use and penetration of social networks to all spheres of society is a somewhat remarkable phenomenon, even in less developed countries. I have personal experiences to attest this fact.

Social networking has always been entwined with its pros and cons, although they aren’t a problem for everyone, always. But there are terms being coined like F.A.D. (Facebook Addiction Disorder), “echo chambers” and the inevitable distractions and consumption of time. So, the affected, started seeking a way out.

You’d probably heard of the “99 days of freedom” campaign. It’s basically a pledge you make to not visit Facebook for 99 days, while informing others of your decision in advance. I’ve seen several of my friends adopting the practice in recent times. Some even did it regularly. When they are back, they usually express a feeling which encompasses a high degree of satisfaction. I of course haven’t done it, but thought of how it would have felt to them. Then my thoughts stumbled across a few parallels.

Have you lived/camped in the middle of a jungle for a few days with no mobile phone connectivity? Have you been on a spiritual retreat with no interactions with the world outside? If yes, then you should understand what I’m implying. These are even considered as recreational activities. In fact, camping in a jungle - with no artificial light sources - is prescribed by some psychologists as a remedy for sleeping disorders, because it “resets” our biological clock. All this only endorses the essence of programs like the “99 days” experiment.

What’s special is how the withdrawal from an addiction or a frequent habit could lead to an elated level of mind. The abstinence affects a change in our psyche. That’s where the detox part really makes sense, since it cleanses you of the distractions or non-benefits. It also breaks the chain and the monotonous routine, giving us real change.