National Day of Unplugging is this week, from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. If the mere thought of a day without devices gives you the shakes, maybe that's all the more reason to at least consider it.
The observance been going on for roughly a decade, originated by Reboot, an organization that affirms the value of Jewish traditions and creates new ways for people to make them their own. The timing of the event coincides with the traditional observance of the Jewish Sabbath, but obviously the value of unplugging extends to people of all walks of life.
"Unplugging" has been defined as: 24 hours of no texting, no social media, no email and no calls. Interestingly, there's not specific mention of staying off video games, but wouldn't that seem like a good way to unplug?
However, as with all made-up holidays, you could define and implement it as you wish.
The organizers have lots of ideas here, including downloadable and printable documents, a pledge to sign, a toolkit and resources aimed especially at kids.
Here, off the top of our heads, are some non-electronic things you could spend time doing:
Go to the zoo: Woodland Park and Point Defiance are great fun in the winter — or anytime of year!
Go for a walk: Here are close-by walks/hikes that are good this time of year. And how about a beach walk? Lincoln Park is just one place that comes to mind.
Read a book: If you need something new, Seattle Public Library or a King County library branch can hook you up.
Have a game night or an entire game day. Here are some cool ideas.
Clean out a closet and donate unneeded clothes and toys.
Have fun, reconnect, do something different: It's just for one day!
