Unplug for Screen Free Week 2013
If you’re like many of us, you spend a huge chunk of your day staring at some kind of computer or television screen (while intermittently checking your phone), video conferencing with business contacts or family, and crowded around friends’/co-workers’ tablets watching the latest YouTube sensation.
Even kids these days are consistently plugged in: to video games, tablets, and the Internet. When was the last time your son or daughter asked to go play outside, or picked up an actual (*gasp*) paperback book?
This April 29th-May 5th marks “Screen Free Week,” a chance for us all to unplug and get back to basics – not to mention a wonderful way to lower our carbon footprints and reduce carbon emissions caused by the constant use of electronics! Below, find a few suggestions for celebrating (or surviving) the occasion:
In the Office
We understand that going completely screen free in the office might be a challenge, or even unrealistic. For the purposes of Screen Free Week, simply try to reduce your screen time as much as possible. Take the initiative and bring up Screen Free Week in your work environment, and brainstorm with your colleagues about ways to honor the commitment.
At Home
In the comfort of your own home, it’s a little easier to go screen free. That’s not to say that it isn’t tempting to plop down on the couch and veg out in front of the TV after a long day
To resist temptation, come up with some ideas ahead of time about how you can spend your free time and evenings without resorting to the Internet, television, apps, video games, etc.
For the Kids: Alternatives to TV/Internet
- Go on a nature hike
- Build something as a family – a tree house, dollhouse, or puppet show theatre. Perfect weekend projects!
- Two words: Arts & Crafts
- Read an actual book (we know, a novel idea)
- Learn a new skill
- Family board games or charades
- Build a fort
- Paint, draw, sketch, or try poetry/creative writing
- Attend one of these awesome Screen Free Week events
For the Grown-Ups: Alternatives to TV/Internet
- Take a nice, long bubble bath
- Take the time to clean the house/tackle that messy attic, basement, closet or garage
- Read a book or magazine
- Learn to cook a new recipe or meal
- Work out – but leave the iPod at home
Even if completely unplugging isn’t a feasible option, you can still contribute to a world with lower carbon emissions! Check out JustGreen Lifestyle carbon offset products at justgreencommunity.com . It is a perfect way for the average consumer to support a healthier, greener planet and help stop global warming.
How will you be spending Screen Free Week? We would love to hear your comments, suggestions, and ideas in the comments!
