I was quite alarmed recently to read about young men, including Manchester City footballer, Erling Haaland, following a new trend of ‘raw-dogging’ on long haul flights.

This involves sitting through the entire flight without any food, water, movement, films, audio, social media etc and simply staring ahead, possibly at the in-flight safety card.

This would appear to fly in the face of the advice we are all given about long-haul flights, in terms of keeping hydrated, keeping moving to avoid DVT etc.

As a therapist, I often discuss the importance of disconnecting from the digital world. In a sense, the mindfulness aspect of 'raw dogging' – focusing solely on the present and the journey – aligns with the core principles of a digital detox.

Let's be clear, I am not advocating for anyone to replicate Haaland’s extreme approach. Dehydration and immobility pose significant health risks, especially on a plane. But the concept of disconnecting from the constant barrage of stimuli can be incredibly beneficial for our mental wellbeing.

In our hyper-connected world, we are bombarded with information and expectations. Our smartphones, tablets, and laptops offer endless entertainment and productivity tools, but also contribute to stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

A digital detox provides an opportunity to reset, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves. By unplugging, we can cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and improve our overall mental health. Just like a flight passenger focused solely on the journey, we can learn to appreciate the present without the distractions of technology.

A digital detox needn't require such drastic measures. Even short breaks from screens can yield positive results. Whether it's an hour without your phone or a weekend unplugged, disconnecting can help us to find inner peace and clarity.

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a common affliction exacerbated by social media. The relentless stream of curated highlight reels can create feelings of inadequacy and isolation. A digital detox provides a much-needed respite from this pressure, allowing individuals to focus on their own lives and experiences without comparison.

Similarly 'doomscrolling' – mindlessly consuming negative news – can contribute to anxiety and depression. Disengaging from this cycle can significantly improve mood and overall wellbeing.

Remember, a digital detox doesn't have to be all or nothing. Even small steps, like setting limits on screen time, can make a positive difference. Our mental health will thank us for it.

* Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various modalities and an Instructor Member of Mental Health First Aid England wellbeing@martinfurber.com