In this world of technology and social media, it is so easy to spend precious moments of free time on platforms like Instagram or TikTok. In this article, I will hopefully give you some fun alternatives to doom-scrolling, which you can use to get some much-needed phone-free time!
One of my favourite activities to keep me busy when I’m bored is reading. Obviously, we all read a lot for our degrees — especially if you are a history student like me — but immersing yourself in a non-academic book can be extremely relaxing and is a great way to fill spare time. For me personally, there is no better feeling than being thoroughly immersed in a story to the point where you can’t put down the book you are reading. Even if fiction is not for you, I am certain there is a book out there which will capture your interest – so head to your local bookshop and have a browse!
Another hobby I enjoy which helps me stay off my phone is journalling. Again, this is an accessible self-care method which can be a great alternative to doom scrolling and is really beneficial for your mental health. Instead of lying in bed watching TikTok, try picking up a pen and writing. If you’re struggling with thinking of what to write, there are lots of journal prompts you can find online to help you get started.
As we all know, Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the winter months. However, my favourite thing to do when I feel like I have had an overdose of screen time is to get outside and go for a walk or run (that is, if it’s not pouring with rain). As students, we spend lots of our days indoors in lectures and the library, and therefore it can be easy to forget the importance of fresh air. I would therefore really recommend building in time spent outdoors to your day if the weather allows it! Moreover, Edinburgh has some beautiful longer walks which are perhaps more suited for weekends — of course, the classic trek up Arthur’s Seat is a popular activity, and I would also recommend walking around Holyrood Park.
I hope this article has given you some ideas and alternatives to doom scrolling on your phone in your free time — remember, although we are all guilty of the occasional doom scroll, breaks from the screen are essential!
Photo by Noémi Macavei-Katócz on Unsplash.