Why unplugging could be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
In a world where everything from reading to relationships is mediated by screens, taking a break from technology can feel radical. We scroll, swipe, and stream through our days—but what happens when we put down the device and pick up something real?
Analog hobbies—activities that don’t require electricity, Wi-Fi, or notifications—are making a quiet comeback. From sketching in a notebook to tending a backyard garden, people are rediscovering the joy of doing things the old-fashioned way. And science backs them up: unplugging regularly doesn’t just feel good, it’s good for your mental health, creativity, and focus.
Let’s take a look at why analog hobbies are having a moment—and why your tech-driven life might benefit from getting a little more… analog.
Why Analog Now?
We live in a hyper-connected world. That has its benefits, but it also means our brains rarely get a break. Notifications, endless news cycles, and the pressure to stay “caught up” can be exhausting. Analog hobbies offer a much-needed counterbalance.
1. Mental Reset
Doing something tactile—knitting, painting, writing by hand—slows your mind down. Studies show that repetitive, hands-on tasks can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm similar to meditation.
2. Creativity Boost
When you’re not relying on tech to entertain or guide you, you give your brain room to wander and make new connections. Creativity thrives in those quiet, tech-free moments.
3. Less Screen Fatigue
Analog hobbies can help prevent digital eye strain, headaches, and even sleep disruption caused by excessive screen time and blue light exposure.
Popular Analog Hobbies Making a Comeback
These aren’t just your grandparents’ pastimes. Today’s analog hobbies blend tradition with a new sense of purpose.
1. Journaling and Bullet Journals
Putting pen to paper has therapeutic benefits—and it’s a powerful way to track goals, reflect, and stay organized without a digital device.
2. Reading Physical Books
E-readers are convenient, but there’s something immersive about the smell of a book and the feel of flipping pages. Plus, no screen glare.
3. Gardening
Whether it’s herbs on a windowsill or a full backyard setup, gardening connects you with nature and gives you a break from constant input.
4. Drawing, Painting, or Crafting
You don’t have to be a professional artist to benefit from getting creative. Making something with your hands activates different parts of your brain than digital interaction.
5. Cooking From Scratch
Not just tossing something in the microwave. Real, intentional cooking can be both meditative and empowering.
6. Playing a Musical Instrument
Learning or practicing an instrument forces you to focus, listen, and build muscle memory—completely screen-free.
7. Hiking and Nature Walks
You don’t need an app to enjoy the outdoors. Time in nature is linked to lower stress, better mood, and improved focus.
What Analog Hobbies Aren’t Trying to Do
Choosing analog hobbies isn’t about rejecting technology—it’s about creating balance. It’s not either/or. It’s both. You can love your smart home setup and still spend Sundays painting watercolors. Analog hobbies don’t need to be productive, monetized, or shared on social media to be meaningful. They just need to feel good to you.
How to Make Room for Analog in a Digital Life
If your schedule is packed and your phone feels permanently glued to your hand, here’s how to make space for unplugged time:
1. Schedule It
Block off time in your day or week where you intentionally unplug and focus on your hobby. Treat it like a meeting with yourself.
2. Create a Tech-Free Zone
Designate one area of your home where screens aren’t allowed—a reading nook, craft corner, or garden bench.
3. Start Small
You don’t need to dive into a huge project. Even 15 minutes a day with an analog activity can make a difference.
4. Embrace Imperfection
Unlike digital tools that promise optimization and perfection, analog hobbies are messy, imperfect, and human. That’s the point.
Disconnect to Reconnect
Analog hobbies won’t replace your digital life—but they can enhance it. In a world that’s always on, slowing down might be the smartest tech upgrade of all. Whether you’re sketching, strumming, planting, or simply sitting quietly with a book, you’re giving your mind a rare gift: presence.
So go ahead—unplug, pick up something tangible, and rediscover what it means to truly engage.