Welcome, Fresh Air Fledglings!

Escaping the Screens: Why Camping is My Mental Reset

I spend most of my time surrounded by screens. My workday is spent in my home office, staring at a monitor. When the workday ends, I often find myself in the same spot—either working on hobbies, playing games, or watching a show. Screens are an unavoidable part of my routine, and I love technology, but every now and then, I need a break. That’s where camping comes in. A few days away from it all—no notifications, no emails, no mindless scrolling—just the outdoors. It’s a mental health reset I didn’t know I needed until I forced myself to step away.

The Power of Base Camp Adventures

For me, camping isn’t just about sitting around a fire (though that’s a big part of it). It’s about having a base camp—a home in the wild—from which I can explore, hike, cook over an open flame, and reconnect with simple joys. There’s something incredibly freeing about waking up, stepping outside, and choosing an adventure for the day without checking a phone first. Instead of reaching for a keyboard, I’m chopping wood. Instead of adjusting a monitor, I’m adjusting my tent or setting up a hammock. And rather than scrolling endlessly, I’m watching the sunset, hearing the crackle of the fire, and feeling the night air settle in.

Technology vs. Nature: Finding the Balance

I love gadgets, and I don’t think I’ll ever be someone who goes completely off-grid. But I’ve learned that the only way I truly disconnect is by removing the temptation altogether. If my laptop is nearby, I’ll use it. If my phone is charged, I’ll check it. But when I’m out camping, I make a conscious choice to switch off. And the result? I see the world differently. It’s not that I don’t appreciate technology—it’s that I appreciate it more after being away. Coming back from a trip, I feel refreshed. My mind is clearer, my focus is sharper, and even my hobbies feel more enjoyable.

A Challenge to Unplug

If you’re someone who feels glued to screens, I challenge you to step away. You don’t have to go on a week-long expedition—even one night away from the digital world can be enough. Find a quiet spot, set up a campfire, and give yourself permission to be present. Trust me, the emails, the notifications, and the shows will still be there when you get back. But you’ll return feeling like you actually took a break, rather than just filling your time with more screen-based distractions. So, when’s your next trip?