STRONGER TOGETHER: The Reality of Unplugging

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses her transformative experience of unplugging during a retreat in the bushland of northern New South Wales, highlighting the benefits of disconnecting from technology and offering practical tips for incorporating unplugging into daily life.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

How often have you travelled to a place where you’ve been warned there’s no Wi-Fi, internet, or mobile phone reception, only to arrive and find out it’s actually true? A bit of doubt had crept in because, well, it's the 21st Century.

I was recently hit with this reality during a trip to the bushland in northern New South Wales.

The sudden (like this was new information) realisation, that I can’t reach the external world, and they can’t reach me. What was that feeling coming over me? Fear? Panic? No, that’s not it. Perhaps it was a hint of anxiety?  No, not that either. As I took a deep breath and come to terms with what I was faced with for the next three days, I dug deep within and really connected with the feeling. The feeling was familiar but unexpected: excitement!

The setting was idyllic: bushland, a campfire, three nutritious meals a day, endless coffee, and a group of social impact leaders from across Australia. No screens or devices to distract us, just the opportunity to rest, recover, share, learn, and connect with others. For some, it was also a chance to reconnect with ourselves.

Unplugging is a genuine reset that allows you to disconnect from the obligations of daily life. I had read about the benefits of unplugging before but had never been ‘brave’ enough to try it. Improved sleep, better physical and mental well-being, reduced stress, improved focus, and strengthened relationships were all promised benefits.

What was the reality?

During the retreat, there were a few other factors that contributed to the experience: an unfamiliar environment, a collective of kind and generous people (who were also strangers), a picturesque bushland setting, and a flexible program that encouraged participation and collaboration while balancing the need for solitude.

While this combination might have been overwhelming for some, I found it energising. I felt deeply connected to the land and the people, fully immersed in my surroundings. It was an indulgence that led to quality conversations, deep listening, and loads of belly laughs, while also providing the opportunity to reflect on what is important and what I need to let go of. Would that have been possible without unplugging? I doubt it.

The best part of this experience was realising that I didn’t need to leave home to create an unplugged experience. Switching off notifications, turning my phone to flight mode, and putting my phone in a drawer or on charge in another room when I arrive home have become new daily practices that are already having a noticeable impact on my mental wellbeing.

What could “unplugging” look like for you?

Unplugging doesn’t have to mean a three-day retreat in the bush. It can be as simple as setting aside an hour each day to disconnect from your devices. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started:

• Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate certain areas in your home, like the dining room or bedroom, as tech-free zones.
• Set Boundaries: Establish specific times when you will not use your devices, such as during meals or before bed.
• Practice Mindfulness: Spend a few minutes each day meditating or simply sitting quietly, focusing on your breath and surroundings.
• Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, whether it’s a walk along the beach or just sitting in your backyard.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can experience the benefits of unplugging without needing to go off the grid completely. Give it a try and see how it transforms your life!