Technology has become an integral part of our lives and is here to stay. With advancements in every area, it’s nearly impossible to go a day without checking our phones or emails. For millennials, memories of going outside to play games like catch, doing cartwheels in the park, and occasionally nearly breaking an arm seem like a thing of the past. In fact, it’s now rare to see children with casts (not that we wish that on them). Still, it’s interesting to think that people used to enjoy the outdoors so much, being creative in their play and, while sometimes hurting themselves accidentally, creating lasting memories.

Even though it's nearly impossible to avoid anything digital these days, there are moments throughout our day when we can choose to have a digital detox. This helps clear our minds, improves our mental health, and enhances our sleep. In this story, you'll find a few activities you can incorporate into your weekly routine to reconnect with nature and take a break from digital devices.

Yoga in the Park

It may seem like an activity for the elderly, but no, yoga isn't the same as tai chi. In fact, yoga is a low-impact exercise that helps improve flexibility and mobility. While yoga can certainly be practiced in studios, there’s something special about practicing outdoors, surrounded by nature, with the peaceful sounds of birds chirping and the wind blowing. It’s an activity that truly promotes relaxation, and the natural environment is the perfect complement. In Singapore, you can find outdoor yoga classes at places like the Botanic Gardens or Fort Canning Green, all at an affordable price. Some locations, such as the Singapore Sports Hub, even offer free outdoor hatha yoga classes. However, we recommend joining classes in the park for that added sense of serenity and detox.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Sentosa

As corporate workers, we often find ourselves cooped up in the office, missing out on essential vitamin D from the sun. A digital detox can also mean engaging in activities that require our full attention and presence. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a great option—it not only trains your balance but also provides a full-body workout. By focusing on balance, you'll engage your core muscles, which helps tone your abs. Additionally, paddling works both your arms and legs, and depending on the intensity, it can also provide a cardiovascular workout, especially if you're paddling in open waters or against the current. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Sentosa this weekend and soak up some sun!

Labrador Nature Reserve

Photo credit: NParks website

If you're not particularly adventurous but still want a digital detox, taking a walk in a nature reserve is great for your health. In fact, for the elderly, walking helps keep joints flexible, reduces stiffness, and ensures long-term mobility. Singapore boasts several natural reserves, and one highly recommended spot is Labrador Nature Reserve. It’s peaceful, rich in WWII history, and offers the chance to spot wildlife along the way. So, be sure to keep your eyes peeled, take a deep breath of fresh air, and enjoy a relaxing walk.

Pottery

If you prefer to stay indoors, there are still ways to disconnect! The biggest distraction for most people is our mobile phones, which give us access to everything. To combat this digital overload, try finding activities that require both of your hands. Pottery is a fun option that gets your hands dirty and eliminates the temptation to check your phone. Plus, it trains your mind to focus on one task at a time while allowing you to tap into your creativity. Many people don’t often get to explore their creative side if their main job doesn’t involve it, but it's important to find ways to be creative to keep our minds growing.

Concrete Everything is a workshop that allows you to go beyond pottery! You will be able to create your very own customisable crafts, ranging from everyday-use items like cup coasters to aesthetically pleasing desk lamps!

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WeTuft

WeTuft is another hands-on activity that will take you away from your mobile phone! At WeTuft, not only will you disconnect from your digital devices, but you'll also create something to take home and use. Tufting is hard work, and many have mentioned that it requires a lot of arm strength. So, consider it an arm workout as you tuft your way through creating a new rug! This activity is also perfect for couples and friends, offering quality time together, away from screens, while enjoying meaningful conversations.

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InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay

While a staycation may not seem like the ideal digital detox, it can be if you approach it with intention. With all the amenities at InterContinental Singapore, you can rest well and catch up on sleep in their comfortable rooms. Afterward, consider taking a dip in the pool or heading to the gym for a workout! Exercise is a great way to disconnect from your devices and focus on your body. We recommend doing this retreat solo or with your spouse. It’s a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together—just be sure to purposefully put your phones away while you’re there!

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Coney Island

In addition to walking, cycling around Singapore is another great way to enjoy a digital detox. With both hands and feet engaged in cycling, it's nearly impossible to use your phone. Instead of cycling in spin studios or at the gym, why not rent a bicycle and head to Coney Island? This off-the-beaten-path island is rustic, with plenty of bike trails and wildlife to discover. It’s like escaping the city, surrounded by greenery and cycling on sand or stones! Another great alternative is Pulau Ubin, where you can rent a bike and take a day tour around the island, reminiscing about old Singapore with its kampungs, stray dogs, and fresh air.

HaveFun Karaoke

While this may not be a complete digital detox, it does bring plenty of joy and relaxation, especially when you're belting out lyrics that resonate with your current life situation. A 2- to 3-hour karaoke session not only helps relieve stress but also burns calories! At HaveFun Karaoke, there are multiple outlets across Singapore for your convenience. Whether you're into English, Chinese, K-pop, or more, you can be the star at HaveFun Karaoke and enjoy a fantastic time without worrying about your inbox or text messages!

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As city dwellers living fast-paced lives, it’s important to occasionally take a digital detox to ensure we’re not chained to our devices. While technology is great, it should be a tool to improve our lives, not something we become slaves to. This week, set aside a few hours to be outdoors without your phones. It’s even better if you spend this time with your family, creating a "no phones" rule for the day. This will encourage communication, strengthen connections, and help everyone tap into their creative side once again.