We all know: winter in the UK is not for the weak. With low temperatures and dark afternoons, it is easy to slip into lazy habits and stop prioritising your own wellbeing. Why not try to enjoy the best of winter in the quietness of the mountains? The UK’s strategic location means you are only a few hours away from some of the best landscapes in the world.
Indeed, if you’re looking to recharge your mental batteries this winter, heading to a remote wilderness for an intensive spell of recuperation, without the distractions that come with modern digital life, can be transformative. Following a digital detox, you might return to the workplace with renewed focus and enthusiasm, and a new perspective on life and the way you want to live it.
Why the Mountains Are the Perfect Reset
For a variety of reasons, many wellness retreats are situated in the mountains. Almost by definition, these regions are isolated from major cities. The air is crisp and clean, and the views are often vast and inspiring. In the UK, we’ve seen growing demand for remote, WiFi-free cabins – and this is part of a wider trend toward screen-free holidays.
Preparing Your Mind & Body for a Winter Mountain Escape
If you’re going to go on this kind of holiday, then you might be tempted to simply dive in. But this could be a mistake, especially if you’re not prepared for the environment. You’ll need clothing that not only keeps the weather at bay but also makes your time in the mountains comfortable.
You might pre-plan a range of simple, non-digital activities, like screen-free reading, journalling and meditation. If you’re in the mountains, then you’ll also want to benefit from the inspiration that often accompanies a long walk – or a ski session. In this regard, the best resorts aren’t always where you expect them to be. Andorra ski holidays are increasingly popular, for example.
Immersive Experiences That Amplify the Detox Effect
A digital detox is often most effective when you have a source of awe and inspiration there to replace the torrent of content you’ve become accustomed to. You might go and have a hot bath out in the open air of a forest, or contemplate the stillness of the trees at dawn. Whatever you choose to do, be sure that it’s screen (and speaker) free by locking away your phone.
Staying Connected to Yourself (Not the WiFi) Afterwards
The benefits of a digital detox tend to extend well beyond the end of your holiday. You’ll want to reflect on your experience and use it to recalibrate your relationship with your phone going forward. It might be that you’re surprised by how much your day-to-day experience changes, in the absence of constant stimulation. Or, you might decide that some limited use of your phone does actually enrich your life.
Spending time offline is increasingly viewed as a luxury, which is demonstrated by the rise of high-end ‘silent’ resorts. But the truth is that you needn’t spend a great deal of money for the privilege of setting your phone aside.
Choosing the Right Retreat: What to Ask & What to Expect
There’s considerable variety on offer when it comes to digital detox resorts. You’ll need to ask about the specific policies regarding phone curfews, and consider your budget, before you decide which is right for you. You’ll also need to be aware of the challenges that come with actually getting to the resort. Reaching your destination might mean strapping a set of snow-chains to your tyres.
