Digital Detox: How 3 Days Without Phone Helps Your Brain
As per a study conducted in Germany, 3 days phone detox can massively change the brain activities and can improve its functioning.
In today’s fast-moving world, mobile addiction is becoming more and more common. Many of us are always on our phones—scrolling through social media, checking messages, or watching videos—without even noticing how much time we spend on it.
Because of this, people often find it hard to focus on important work and get distracted easily. It also affects personal relationships, as many prefer spending time on their phones instead of with their loved ones.
To deal with this issue, the idea of a “digital detox” is becoming popular. ISH News had earlier shared a video on how a village in Sangli district, Maharashtra, does a daily digital detox.
(Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDeyZIZxA_Y)
Now, a new study by researchers from Heidelberg University and the University of Cologne in Germany shows that just a 3-day break from smartphone use can bring big changes in the brain and reduce anxiety in young people.
In this study, 25 young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 were told to stop using smartphones for 72 hours. They could only use them for important calls or work-related tasks. Before and after the experiment, the participants answered questions about their mood, phone usage, and cravings. Their brains were also scanned using MRI machines.
The results were surprising!
After 3 days without regular phone use, their brains showed activity in areas linked to dopamine (a feel-good hormone) and serotonin (a chemical that sends signals between nerves). This means that taking a break helps the brain feel more balanced and calm.
The parts of the brain responsible for reward (feeling happy) and impulse control (self-control) were most affected. This shows that the brain reacts to phones just like it does to bad habits or cravings like junk food. So, reducing phone use can feel like breaking a strong habit—but it helps in the long run.
Here are some benefits of a smartphone break:
- Better self-control: Without constant notifications, people learn to control their actions better.
- Improved focus: Staying away from phones helps the brain think deeply and focus on important work.
- Lower stress: Social media and news can affect our mood. A break gives peace of mind.
- Brain improvement: MRI scans show that the brain starts working in a healthier way.
- Stronger relationships: Less screen time means more time with loved ones, improving personal bonds.
But one common question many people ask is — “Can we even do a digital detox when our job is online?” It’s a good question, and the answer may be different for everyone.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
