Picture this: It’s Friday evening. Your phone is blowing up with texts, emails, and an alarming number of notifications from that group chat you forgot to mute. Your brain is juggling a million things at once—work, social plans, and whether or not you should finally start that new show everyone’s been talking about. Sound familiar?
Now, imagine hitting the pause button. No texts, no scrolling, no doom-scrolling. Just peace. That, my friends, is the magic of the Shabbat Reset—the OG self-care routine that’s been around for centuries, and honestly, it’s the power move you didn’t know you needed.
The 3,000-Year-Old Life Hack
In a world where we’re always “on,” unplugging can feel like an extreme sport. But here’s the deal: Shabbat isn’t about deprivation. It’s about reclaiming your time, your energy, and your sanity. It’s the ultimate life hack that gives you permission to chill, recharge, and be present without the digital noise.
Think about it: When was the last time you had a meal without checking your phone? Or took a walk outside without immediately pulling up Google Maps? The art of the Shabbat reset is about reconnecting with yourself, with your people, and with that long-lost feeling of not being constantly overwhelmed.
Why Unplugging Is the Ultimate Power Move
So why is unplugging for 25 hours (or even just a few hours) such a game-changer? Let’s break it down:
Your Brain Needs a Break – Studies show that our constant screen use increases stress and anxiety. Shabbat is a built-in reset button for your brain.
Real Conversations > DMs – When you put down your phone, you find yourself having actual, meaningful conversations—like with real people! Over food! Without being distracted by 17 different apps.
FOMO Turns Into JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) – Instead of scrolling through what everyone else is doing, you get to live in the moment. Spoiler: It’s way more fun than you think.
You Sleep Better – No late-night TikTok binges = actual rest. And no, checking your phone first thing in the morning isn’t a personality trait.
How to Start Your Shabbat Reset (Without Stressing About It)
Okay, you’re intrigued. You want to give this whole unplugging thing a try. But where do you start? Don’t worry—I’ve got you. Here’s a no-pressure guide to making Shabbat your new favorite self-care ritual.
Step 1: Set the Mood – Light some candles, turn on some chill music, and set the tone for a slower, more relaxed vibe. If you want to go full Pinterest aesthetic, a cozy Shabbat dinner setup is highly encouraged.
Step 2: Out of Sight, Out of Mind – Put your phone in a drawer. Hide it under a pile of laundry. Give it to a responsible friend. The goal isn’t to suffer—it’s to free yourself from the endless cycle of notifications.
Step 3: Plan Something You Enjoy – Shabbat doesn’t mean you have to sit in silence contemplating life (unless that’s your thing). Go for a walk, read a book, or have a long, distraction-free meal with friends. Do something that makes you happy—without the pressure to post about it.
Step 4: Embrace the Awkward at First – If the thought of being phoneless for an extended period makes you twitchy, you’re not alone. But after the initial “What do I do with my hands?!” phase, you’ll start to feel the benefits. Trust the process.
Step 5: Reflect & Reset – By the end of Shabbat, you might notice something wild: you feel more rested, more connected, and less stressed. That’s the beauty of the reset—it carries into the rest of your week.
Shabbat Reset: The Glow-Up Your Week Needs
In a culture that glorifies being “busy,” choosing to unplug is a bold move. But here’s the truth: Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Shabbat is a built-in opportunity to recharge, refocus, and reconnect with what matters. And let’s be honest—does anyone really need another doom-scroll session?
So this week, challenge yourself. Take a break. Power down. And discover why unplugging isn’t just an ancient tradition—it’s a modern-day superpower.
Photo credit: Canva
