Learn why unplugging matters and how the Axis team put practice into play this summer.
In a hyperconnected, digital world, we are constantly stimulated by screens — checking our phones for work emails, scrolling social feeds or unwinding in front of the TV. Spending time offline, even just for a little bit, has a myriad of positive outcomes.
Reducing screen time has been shown to boost your mood and decrease stress levels. Minimizing your exposure to blue light, especially at nighttime, can help you sleep, leading to more restful nights. A digital detox can also have physical benefits, such as reducing eye strain and headaches. Most importantly, it’s a great way to reconnect with the things and people you love and come back to work, and a digital world, a little more charged.
Here’s how the team at Axis unplugged this summer.
Nuvyn Peters, CEO, Axis Connects
“On the heels of our Axis Stampede event, I took off to Iceland for five days with my daughter. We rented a campervan and explored the country: hiking, taking in breathtaking sights and soaking up the amazing scenery. It was a wonderful opportunity to step out of our comfort zones, connect with each other and fully embrace the adventure.”
Alexandra Stante, Executive Director, Axis Connects
“This summer, I was able to lean into the art of unplugging, something made possible by an amazing team that covers for each other. First, my husband and I dropped our boys off with my lovely mother-in-law and headed to the Gulf Islands to learn something new(ish) and complete our coastal cruising sailing certification. Because nothing says “relax” like learning how to dock a boat that doesn’t belong to you. Now, I’m on round two: a family adventure along Italy’s Adriatic coastline, soaking up sunshine, seafood and gelato-fueled explorations.”
Katarina Seckarova, Executive Director, Board Ready Women
“I spent a week recharging in Jasper — no emails or phone calls, just fresh air, serene lakes, and mountain trails. Disconnecting was incredibly refreshing, and I returned rested and reenergized. The scars left by last year’s wildfires were a quiet nudge to appreciate what we have, while we have it — a powerful reminder to step back, reset and reconnect with nature, and with ourselves.”
Claire Edwards, Program and Marketing Manager, Axis Connects
“This summer, I unplugged by swapping my laptop for lake views and a few (mostly) straight drives down the fairway. Mornings started with coffee on the dock, afternoons on the course or out on the boat, and evenings devoted to Okanagan wine ‘research’, purely for educational purposes, of course. Turns out the best way to recharge is fresh air, a little friendly competition, and just enough Wi-Fi to check the weather.”
Clara Weller, Project Manager, Axis Connects
“I unplugged this summer by spending my weekends hiking in the mountains, where there was no service, so I couldn’t check my emails and texts. I also made it a point to not do anything work-related from 5 p.m. on a Friday to 8 a.m. on a Monday morning.”
Alexis Berezan, Director of Programs and Partnerships, Axis Connects
“This summer, I visited Nova Scotia and PEI for the first time. Nothing helps me recharge better than seeing a new place. Two weeks of beautiful landscapes, sailing, lake and ocean swims — plus some heavy research of the local breweries, wineries and cideries — was absolutely amazing. The restorative powers of seafood chowder cannot be overstated. I also “supported the local economy” via some much-needed retail therapy and visited some historical sites to expand my knowledge of the region. I left with a deep appreciation of the beauty of Canada and gratitude to live in such an incredible country.”