How to do a 48-hour dopamine detox
Clear steps on what to do and the benefits of detoxing. Plus, alternate options if 48-hours feels like too much. Danielle LaPort and Andrew Huberman quote and more!
Today’s the day we begin our dopamine detox.
If you decide not to join, that’s okay.
You'll still get some great ideas for decreasing stimulating activities.
If you want to do a less intense version, I share those below.
From what I’ve read, the 48-hour one is the most intense because you’re supposed to eliminate all external stimuli.
I'm not going to lie; I feel nervous and uncomfortable.
Which makes me even more determined to try it.
We can do this.
Eliminate stimulation for 48 hours
When it comes to the benefits of a 48-hour fast, Dopamine Detox says:
“Doing so will help you reduce your overall level of stimulation and revert to your natural state. You will feel much calmer and find it easier to focus on any specific important task.”
It also states that eliminating all sources of stimulation means removing these from your life:
Drug/alcohol consumption
Exercising (I’d say yoga or other relaxing movements are ok)
Internet (checking emails, browsing, etc.)
Netflix, YouTube, movies, any streaming or TV
Music (except relaxing music)
Phone
Social media
Sugar/processed foods
Video games
The sugar and TV part will be the toughest for me.
How about you?
Ideas for what to do instead
From the same book, here are suggestions of what you can do instead:
Going for a contemplative walk
Journaling
Meditating/Relaxing
Cooking
Reading (except stimulating reads)
Stretching exercises
Creative pursuits that don’t rely on artificial stimuli
Spend time with family and loved ones
Eating whole, nutritious foods
Sleeping
Getting a massage
Practicing gratitude
Gardening
Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman says:
“A lot of people are intimidated by dopamine detoxes, but it’s actually really simple and easy. And it’s one of the best things you can do to improve your mental health, mental clarity, focus, and overall presence in life. You will feel much more centered and still.”
I've picked out some lunch and dinner recipes, charged up my reMarkable notebook to journal, and plan to read books at night instead of watching TV.
How are you planning to tackle this detox? Are there any concerns or excitement? Please share it in the comments!
Other options
Here are some alternatives if you’re not ready for 48 hours:
1. Detox for 24 hours
Do everything listed above but for 24 hours instead of 48. This will be easier but also less effective.
2. The partial dopamine detox
This, too, is less demanding but can be very useful over a long period.
It’s where you remove the most significant source of stimulation.
I completely erased all social media apps from my phone six months ago and didn't re-download them except when I posted for The Good Space.
But once I did, I immediately deleted it again.
That has been a great source of peace and presence.
Francesca
Did this spark any thoughts, questions, or insights? Tell us in the comments. I love hearing from you, and you never know who else needs what you have to say!
Good Quote
Good Question
Move up the ladder to higher vibrations by writing at the top of a blank page:
What emotion do I want to feel regarding my health and relationships?
and see what flows from your pen. No judgment or editing.
Good Thinking
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Did this inspire any thoughts, questions, or revelations? Tell us in the comments. I love hearing from you, and you never know who else needs what you have to say!