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New Zealand’s first city wide Digital Detox is almost here!

Canterbury gears up for Digital Detox

All Right? press release, 30 September

New Zealand’s first city wide Digital Detox is almost here!

This Sunday, 2 October 2016, between 10am and 2pm, people in Canterbury will be separating from their smartphones and devices as part of the All Right? Digital Detox.

Sue Turner, All Right? manager, says support for the Digital Detox, since it was announced earlier this month, has been fantastic.

“People just get it. Nearly everyone we’ve talked with understands the importance of finding balance when it comes to how we’re using technology,” Ms Turner says.

“Digital devices are amazing. They help us connect with loved ones, keep us up to date with breaking news, and even track our steps! It is hard to imagine life without them.

“The Digital Detox is all about asking whether we’ve got the balance right.”

According to Nokia, most people look at their phone 150 times a day, or once every 6.5 minutes someone is awake. Earlier this year, research company Nielsen reported that 3.1 million New Zealanders spend 16 hours online every week.

“For most of us completely unplugging is unrealistic. There are simply calls to take, and texts or emails to answer. But this doesn't have to mean being online and available 24/7.”

Ms Turner says being away from our screens for short periods has many benefits.

“Having a break from technology allows us to slow down and focus on the things that matter most, like enjoying the outdoors, spending time with loved ones or giving something new a go. Those things lower stress levels, improve relationships and boost wellbeing.”

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Ms Turner is encouraging people to hand over their phones and take part in the All Right Amble as part of their Digital Detox on Sunday.

The All Right? Amble is held at the Botanical Garden’s every year as part of The Breeze Walking Festival, and has five interactive wellbeing stations en route.

“This year people at the All Right? Amble will be able to check in their phones at our secure Digital Detox booth so they can enjoy some screen-free time in one of the most beautiful places in Christchurch,” Ms Turner says.

5 tips to help you become screen savvy:

1) Set some time aside each day that is screen-free.

2) Wear a watch. One of the most common reasons to pick up your phone is to see the time… and it’s a fast spiral to cat videos from there!

3) Turn off your notifications … less chirping means less checking!

4) Switch your phone to flight mode. Turning off your transmission function means you can use your camera and enjoy your music in peace.

5) Sleep easy! Use an old-school alarm and leave your phone in a different room when you go to bed. Light from screens stops production of the hormone melatonin, which is vital for getting to sleep.

ends

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