Determined to spend less time on your phone, but don’t know where to start?

We’ve got you covered! Our team has compiled a list of our favorite tech-free activities for you to implement over the Holidays.

1. Enjoy the silence, carve out 5 minutes of quiet contemplation.

   Start a new routine and  increase the quiet time to 10, 15, or 30 minutes a day. You might find it hard to carve out this time but try some creative work arounds like if you commute and you are not driving. Spend this time blocking the outside distractions and focusing on the quiet contemplation. 

2. Ask a friend for a book recommendation and go to the library and borrow a hard copy of the book to read.

   Start reading the book at the library without interruption for at least 30 minutes.

3. Take a walk, hike or bike ride in a local park or nature preserve.

   If you can, explore a new park or nature preserve in your area if the weather permits.

4. Take in the Christmas Lights.

   Pack some hot chocolate and visit different neighborhoods to see Christmas lights...the little kid inside of you will think it's magical!

5. Start or continue a new hobby.
   
   Learn how to make a scarf or start a new painting. Stop by your local arts or hobby stores and explore all kinds of new ideas!

6. Explore where you live, you might be surprised by what you find.

   Go to a local historical sight or a museum if you have one nearby. Stay away from the recorded tours and make your own way through the museum.

7. Try a new recipe or bake something new.

   Try recreating a favorite dish or a baked good from one of your favorite restaurants.

8. Try a new restaurant that you have wanted to go to.

9. Go to your favorite cafe, order a drink that you like and then get lost in a book. 

10. Take the time and effort to meet up with a friend that you haven’t seen in a while to reconnect.

11. Renew your connection with a neighbor or meet a new neighbor.

12. Make the effort to foster more face to face community connections. These types of connections are the most meaningful.

13. Signup to volunteer at your church, local library or another organization that you love.

    You can check out the needs at a few of your favorite organizations first and then decide where you want to volunteer your time.

14. Perform some random acts of kindness like helping an elderly neighbor with their groceries or taking out their trash. 

15. Treat yourself well with selfcare.

    Go to a spa for a treatment or make your own spa at home. Selfcare can be as small as going to bed on time every night so you are well rested.

16. Work on a puzzle.
    
    Pick out a puzzle with a theme close to your heart!

17. Play cards or a board game with friends or family.

    You can play the old school games or buy a newer game.

18. Start a journal and write in your journal daily even if you only write short entries in the beginning.

Live fully.