We check our phones dozens of times a day and our attention never rests. Stepping away from screens for several days in nature isn't just pleasant: research shows it improves creativity and frees up mental capacity.
Why doesn't the mind rest?
Researcher Gloria Mark (2023) has spent two decades measuring how long we hold our attention on a screen: today it's about 47 seconds on average before switching tasks. Every switch costs mental energy.
Does your phone affect you even if you don't use it?
Yes. Ward and colleagues (2017) found that having your phone in sight, even face down and silenced, reduces available cognitive capacity. Part of the mind keeps watching it.
What happens after several days in nature?
Atchley, Strayer and Atchley (2012) tested people before and after a four-day nature excursion without devices: their performance on creativity tests improved by 50%. Strayer himself describes a "third-day effect": around the third day away from screens, the mind quiets down and the senses sharpen.
How do you achieve a real disconnection?
With enough days, places where signal is scarce and someone else handling the logistics. If you have to check bookings and schedules, you're still connected.
Frequently asked questions
- How many days does it take to disconnect?
- Studies suggest the change becomes noticeable from the third or fourth day.
- Do you have to switch your phone off completely?
- Not necessarily, but it's best to put it away and use it as little as possible.
- What kind of trip helps most?
- One in nature, with long days outdoors and nothing to organize.
Related trips
Keep reading
This article is for information only and does not replace consultation with a health professional.
Sources
- Atchley, R. A., Strayer, D. L. y Atchley, P. (2012). Creativity in the wild. PLoS ONE.
- Ward, A. F. et al. (2017). Brain drain: the mere presence of one's own smartphone reduces available cognitive capacity. Journal of the Association for Consumer Research.
- Mark, G. (2023). Attention Span. Hanover Square Press.
