In an age of limitless online possibilities, unplugging becomes a deliberate choice. We look at the rise of trends such as digital detox, silent retreats, and distinctly Scandinavian practices such as swimming in icy water.
In our fast-paced, digitally driven world, being constantly connected has become the norm. This has many benefits: We’ve never had easier access to information, entertainment and opportunities for connecting with people, both professionally and personally.
However, such efficiency sometimes comes at a price: Many find their work and leisure time blending into one another, and unlimited opportunities can lead to FOMO. The relentless pursuit of achievement and progress, coupled with the overstimulation of our minds, has left many yearning for a sense of peace and balance in their lives. One response has been a noticeable trend toward seeking refuge in offline activities and tranquil settings. From digital detoxes and silent retreats to rediscovering practices such as cold-water swimming, people are increasingly turning to things that counteract the constant buzz of modern life. Which in turns lead to a demand for public and private spaces that can cater to this need.
Which in turns lead to a demand for public and private spaces that can cater to this need.
Amidst the ever-present glow of screens and incessant hum of notifications, the need to disconnect has never been more keenly felt. One response is the phenomenon of digital detoxes – deliberate periods of time spent away from electronic devices. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a remote cabin or simply switching off smartphones for a day, these detoxes offer a chance to focus on other aspects of life. Many turn to unplugging from technology to reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall well-being. Unsurprisingly, this has given rise to a range of unplugging holiday offerings ranging from off-grid basic camping to more luxurious ’glamping’, cabins and the like. Often, locking up your devices is part of the service, preventing you from yielding to temptation! Such places usually cultivate a rustic, pared-back aesthetic with a focus on natural, neutral materials.
In the UK, the succinctly named company Unplugged (unplugged.rest) is a prime example of the trend: People flock to spend three days in an off-grid cabin where your smartphone is replaced by an old-school Nokia.
Simply switching off smartphones for a day, these detoxes offer a chance to focus on other aspects of life.
Silent travel is one of Condé Nast’s top travel trends for 2024. One aspect is silent retreats, where participants willingly enter into periods of silence, disconnecting from verbal communication and immersing themselves in contemplation and mindfulness practices. Here, participants seek to quiet the mind, cultivate self-awareness, and foster deep introspection. Some places are rooted in specific wisdom traditions and/or spiritual and meditative practices. The beautifully located retreat centre Mandali mandali.org/centre/ in the Italian Alps, is a prime example.
Turning to our own part of the world, Danes have some very specific ways of reconnecting with the physical world. Cold-water swimming (known in Denmark as ‘winter bathing’) has surged in popularity in recent years – to be point where many associations won’t even put you on the waiting list anymore! Basically, cold-water swimming is wild swimming conducted all year round, even in the depth of winter. Despite the initial shock of plunging into icy waters, enthusiasts – often affectionately called ‘Vikings’ in Denmark – swear by its invigorating effects on both body and mind. It certainly grounds you firmly in your body! And don’t worry, you’ll soon get warm again: Most combine their cold dips with intermittent trips to the sauna, alternating cold and heat to really get the blood flowing! Cold water swimming not only boosts circulation and strengthens the immune system, it also induces a natural high, releasing endorphins and promoting a sense of euphoria. Just in case you were wondering why people do it …
Despite the initial shock of plunging into icy waters, enthusiasts – often affectionately called ‘Vikings’ in Denmark – swear by its invigorating effects on both body and mind.
Closely connected to the cold-water swimming tradition, sauna therapy is another ancient tradition experiencing a resurgence in Scandinavia today. Originating in Finland, saunas have long been appreciated for their cleansing effects on body and mind alike. The ritual of heating up in a sauna followed by a plunge into cold water or a roll in the snow is deeply relaxing and promotes stress relief. In recent years, aromatherapy and similar initiatives have been added to the sauna experience. One particular example is the so-called ‘saunagus’, literally ‘sauna mist’ sessions, where a ‘mist master’ uses essential oils to create fragrant steam then dispersed by swinging a towel. Often combined with music, these sessions are highly sought-after and tend to sell out very quickly! Want to try? Read the ‘Serenity in the City’ article
Amidst the many opportunities of our digital age, the quest for peace and balance remains a universal pursuit. In response to the pace of modern life, people are increasingly seeking out offline activities and mindful practices. Whether it’s a digital detox, a silent retreat, or a plunge into icy waters, these endeavours offer alternatives to the constant stimulation of our digital world. For more on how this trend manifests itself in urban and domestic architecture, read our ‘Serenity in the City’ feature.
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