Disconnect to Reconnect: Focus on What Matters on Expedition

Why Are Digital Detoxes Important?

Are you tired of doom scrolling social media for hours at a time? Don’t worry, it happens to us all.

It can be hard to avoid the pull of our phones when we are stuck at home or procrastinating our studies and work. But with the often bleak stories in today’s news and the intoxicating stimulation of social media, time spent on our phones can quickly turn into a negative experience.

Studies have shown that doom-scrolling can negatively impact our mental and physical health. According to a study published in the Journal of Health Communication, 16.5% of 1,100 people showed signs of “severely problematic” news consumption. This over-consumption of negative news stories led to stress, anxiety and poor health in the study candidates.

Moreover, Pion reports that over 50% of Gen Z wish they could find a way to disconnect from social media. The constant pull of phones can keep us online and prevent us from having real-world experiences. This problem has inspired many Gen Z’ers to sign off from their devices, with trends like #MonkMode which gained more than 76 million views on TikTok alone.

Now more than ever, it is essential that we take time away from modern distractions and reconnect with the simple and critical elements of life. Here’s why.

Goodbye Screen Time, Hello Expedition

On Raleigh Expedition, we ask that our Venturers take a step away from their smartphones and participate in a digital detox during every phase. That means while you are working on your Environmental or Community project or on trek, everyone will collectively take a break from calls, social media and other digital distractions.

These extended digital breaks allow Venturers to go back to basics and immerse themselves fully in Expedition life. Without modern distractions, you will have the opportunity to build more meaningful connections with your peers, fully commit yourself to the project work and witness the positive impact you have on communities and the environment.

Reconnecting with Yourself

With the constant distraction of phones and digital devices, it is challenging to find the time to pause and reflect. But, taking time away from our usual routines and allowing space to think freely can be hugely beneficial to our well-being. Discover the many benefits of disconnecting from technology.

The constant stream of notifications and the pressure to be always available can not only lead to stress and anxiety but can also make it difficult to find time for ourselves. What’s more, the influences of online content and social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and FOMO (fear of missing out).

When we step away from these negative influences, we reclaim the ability to engage with our inner thoughts and beliefs and remember what is most important to us.

Reconnecting with Peers

Throughout Raleigh’s history, Venturers have forged lifelong friendships and memories. The challenging, yet rewarding nature of Expedition often creates deeper and more meaningful connections between Venturers.

While on project, you will be working together as a team and in turn your communication and collaborative abilities will transform. Without the distraction of technology, you have time to get to know your teammates on a personal level and make friends with people from all sorts of different backgrounds.

Being part of such a tight-knit group can help you feel seen, heard and a part of something larger than yourself, something that we often miss when we are stuck in the digital world.

Learn from Chloe’s Second Raleigh Expedition

Reconnecting with Nature

Our Expeditions take place in remote locations. While working on important projects, you will be living and carrying out daily tasks in beautiful natural landscapes. Without modern comforts like televisions and phones, Venturers often remark that they learn to appreciate the simple things in life. Evidence has also shown that spending quality time in nature promoted mental clarity, reduces stress and enhance our overall wellbeing.

During your Environmental Project, you will participate in hands-on conservation efforts and learn about the local environment’s needs and threats. By the end of your project your appreciation of nature will have completely transformed, as will your commitment to understanding and protecting it.

Reconnecting with Creativity

Often when we are consuming so much media online that we miss out on opportunities to express ourselves through creative outlets.

On Expedition, life is taken back to basics and Venturers often have to use their creative mind and resourcefulness to overcome challenges. On top of this, when you are free from digital distractions, you have more time to express yourself through writing, art, or other creative outlets, and the setting couldn’t be better! After all, what’s more inspiring than the beautiful and tranquil natural landscapes of Costa Rica and South Africa.

Get Involved!

Don’t miss out on the gap year experience of a lifetime! Join your Expedition in South Africa and Costa Rica today by getting in touch with our team directly. Alternatively, You can also apply through our application form or schedule a consultation call to discuss your adventure.