8 small steps to live a more analog life & heal our digital brain rot
If your brain’s been feeling scrambled from constant scrolling and rapid switching between apps, this post is your soft reminder to slow down.
These tiny analog habits have helped me feel more present, focused, and cozy again without needing a full digital detox or total phone ban.
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Create more than you consume 🎨
It’s way too easy to spend hours watching other people live creatively when deep down, we want to be doing the same.
Instead of opening another app, start with something small.
Doodle, journal, start a page in a coloring book, write a silly poem, bake. Making something real gives your brain the hit it’s craving.
you can find my cozy hobby item recommendations here 🧩
Embrace boredom 🍂
I know, it’s not fun at first. But boredom is a skill. It teaches your nervous system that stillness is okay.
Instead of grabbing your phone the second nothing’s happening, try just sitting in it. Let your thoughts get weird. This is where creativity starts to return!
Collect and consume more physical media 💿
There’s something grounding about holding a book, flipping through a DVD menu, or playing a vinyl record. It slows you down in the best way.
No algorithm is deciding what’s next, you are! Plus, your eyes and brain get a break from the constant blue light zap.
Do more brain games, puzzles, etc. 🧩
This is as simple as a cozy crossword puzzle or sudoku book by the window with a warm drink.
Tactile games help rewire the brain for slower, focused thinking. It’s a low-effort way to stay mentally enriched without defaulting to scrolling.
Nurture local community 🎨
Analog life thrives with analog people. Whether it’s joining a painting class, hosting a craft night, or just chatting with the barista you always see.
Real connection fills you up in a way that likes and DMs just can’t. Cozy doesn’t mean isolated.
Refrain from scrolling in bed 🛏️
Keeping your bedroom as a no-phone zone (or at least trying to) makes a huge difference.
Your mornings feel softer, your nights more peaceful. Try reading a few pages before sleep instead 📖. I promise your brain will thank you.
check out some of my favorite holiday books here 📚
Reframe inconvenience 🖍️
It’s easy to see analog tasks as “extra effort” when we’re used to instant everything. But slowing down can actually make a task feel more meaningful.
Walking to the store down the street instead of driving, writing a note by hand, making your own pasta sauce. These moments invite presence.
One activity at a time 🍵
Multitasking used to feel impressive to me but now it just feels a little harmful. Try doing one thing at a time, all the way through.
Watch a movie without your phone. Finish a hobby session before starting a new one. Your attention span will slowly rebuild in the quiet.
Final cozy thoughts 💛
You don’t need to swear off technology or vanish into a forest lol. Living a little more analog is about reclaiming a bit of peace and intention.
Even one analog habit a day can shift your energy. let it be gentle, let it feel good, and let it bring you back to yourself.
Stay cozy!
Kennedy 🕯️🤎
