By Stephanie Howton, DVM

Our lives are busy.

There are more tasks to accomplish than there are hours in a day. There are things that have to get done, things that should get done, and things that distract us, hello social media! Technology has both helped and crippled us.

Sure, we can take a vacation. But if we spend our time on social media, are we ever really focusing on the here and now? My solution: get out of town!

The best way to refocus is by going off the grid, enjoying a complete break from society and the internet.

1. Choose Your Reset Destination

My ideal reset is camping. I realize there are those who are thinking, "nope, camping is not for me!" But if you haven't tried it before, how do you really know?

In my younger years, camping fell into the category of annoyances I was forced to do for a college mammalogy class. There was no way it was going to be fun, and I did not have camping supplies. It was also NOT how I had planned on spending my Labor Day weekend. Surprisingly enough, I had a wonderful time and found out that I love camping.

2. Turn Off the Phone

Over the years, I started to camp often. I am happiest being somewhere with no wifi or cellular access. Turning our phones to 'Do Not Disturb' is simply not enough. Alerts & notifications still shine like beacons of things we are missing out on, teasing us to click them.

It is hard to ignore them and honestly gets frustrating for your work world to intrude so easily into ME time. No cellular or WIFI access also means no temptation for social media. Instead, bring an iPod or a portable DVD player (no, not Netflix).

Letting go of distractions allows you to focus on the present.

3. Enjoy the Nature Around You.

Immerse in the sights and sounds of the world around you. Don't just stay at your campsite. You can hike trails or visit designated wildlife or scenic areas. They don't have to be long hikes at all, just take the first step.

The choices are endless. Some of the activities easily paired with camping include: fishing, photography, herping, birding, kayaking, swimming, and boating.

4. Plan Your Vacations Ahead of Time!

Get together with family members and plan 3-6 months in advance. Don't forget to think about what the weather will be like. If you are camping during a holiday, the spots must be reserved months in advance. If you are using a camper, the sites with water/electricity hook-ups fill up first. It will typically require one day on either end of the trip for setting up/taking down and traveling. Take at least 5 days off.

And while you're at it, plan two trips, one break per year is simply not enough!

5. No Equipment?

There are tents and campers that you can rent. Ask a friend to borrow theirs. If staying in a tent or camper is simply out of the question, consider an alternative. Several places have cabins for rent. You can also look into rustic or fishing lodges. Fishing lodges tend to be located in secluded beautiful areas. You certainly don't have to fish to stay there! The lodges typically have good amenities.

Why, Again, Should You Leave WIFI Behind?

There are many benefits to being off the grid. Your body breathes in clean air. Your muscles and brain take a much deserved break. You have time to practice mindfulness (something very important to our mental health). You can go back home refreshed and ready to take charge.

So, please, focus on your quality of life and plan your first off the grid trip. It can't hurt to try!