It is hard to admit but I do have a phone problem, I will pick up my phone just to check one notification, only to realize an hour has disappeared. I will pick up my phone when I get bored. I will use my phone even in the restroom. Even in the car while my husband drives, I still scroll on my phone. When I want to just mentally check out, I scroll on my phone. Doom scrolling is such an easy habit to learn. I know that I am not alone on this. Our phones have so much power on us and we are so connected yet so disconnected at the same time
If I'm being honest, after the doom scroll my mind would feel overwhelmed instead of refreshed. Yes, our phones can be a very important tool for learning, inspiration, motivation, and communication. But just anything else when it goes unchecked, can turn into a bad addiction or habit. If you are interested on reading a couple of research articles about smartphone addiction, here are two from National Library of Medicine and Science Direct:
The good news is that you don't have to quit technology altogether.
One of the best ways to reduce screen time is to replace it with analog hobbies—activities that use your hands, engage your creativity, and help you become fully present.
Whether you're a busy mom, homemaker, working professional, or simply looking for a healthier balance, these screen-free hobbies can help you slow down and enjoy everyday life again.
What Are Analog Hobbies?
I think I heard the term analog hobbies first from a YouTube video where the vlogger was sharing hobbies- analog hobbies that she does. Analog hobbies are activities that don't require a phone, tablet, or computer.
Instead of consuming endless content, you're creating, learning, building, or simply enjoying the present moment.
These hobbies often:
Reduce stress
Improve focus
Encourage creativity
Help lower anxiety
Give your brain a break from constant notifications
Create meaningful memories
Rewires your brain
While doomscrolling can be hard to stop because our brains crave novelty. Every swipe brings something new—a headline, a funny video, a recipe, or another post.
The problem is that endless scrolling rarely leaves us feeling rested. Instead, it often leads to mental fatigue, increased anxiety, and it affects relationships too! I've been feeling a strong conviction to do something about it and to replace
my scrolling with an enjoyable hobby to give my brain another source of satisfaction.
Here are the analog hobbies that I am enjoying lately:
1. Bible Study with Friends
2. Prayer Journal
I started a prayer journal last year, but I was not consistent about it. So, this summer, I started writing on my prayer journal again. Not only I get to handwrite my prayers, I also get to talk to Jesus with my prayer letters.
3. Sewing
I learned how to sew last year with my girls when we were learning to make products for our markets. As a vendor, the girls want to sell handmade items. A friend came over and patiently taught us how to sew. We learned how to make scrunchies first and then we learned drawstring bags. I took a break from sewing and this summer, we learned a few new things.
Eye Glass/Sun Glass Case
Bowl Covers
Pencil Case with Zippers
Corner Bookmarks
Hair Bows
I can tell you that my hobbies are only 3 but they did replace my doom scrolling. Creating opened to door for creativity. Instead of swiping or scrolling for the next funny video or other people's highlights, I am excited for my next sewing project. My girls also learned to cross stitching and crochet.
I am also thinking about other hobbies that I want to learn like junk journaling and quilting. I also would like to finally finish and read the books that are currently on my reading list.
What about you? I would love to hear the hobbies that you are enjoying and keeps you away from your smartphone.
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