Living Offline: 8 Ways to Enjoy Your Day Without Internet

Tomorrow, 27 October 2024, Assam will experience its third round of “Mobile Internet Down” – a 7.5-hour internet shutdown starting at 8:30 am. This step is taken by the Assam Government to ensure the smooth conduct of the ADRE Grade IV exams. While examinees stay occupied with their tests, the rest of Assam’s population will have to endure a day without internet access, finding ways to fill their time away from the usual online routines. For many, it’s an unexpected twist to their Sunday plans.

Sundays are typically a day for winding down, engaging in light activities, and preparing mentally for the week ahead. A day off often means taking a break from the usual weekday rush, resting up, or indulging in some relaxing hobbies. However, for those who were planning to kick back with their phones or laptops, this unplanned digital detox could be a tough adjustment. But worry not – we’ve got you covered! Here are eight enjoyable and productive ways to make the most of your internet-free Sunday.

1. Prepare for Diwali with some Artistic Touch: Art can be incredibly relaxing, even if you’re not a professional artist. Gather some pencils, crayons, or paints lying around the house and sketch anything that inspires you. You don’t have to be an expert. Plus, with Diwali just around the corner, consider using your artistic skills to find creative ways to decorate your home for the festival. Whether it’s colourful rangoli designs, handmade decorations, or festive artwork, your creations can add a personal touch to your celebrations.

2. Declutter Your Space: A tidy space is a tidy mind. Use this time to clean out a corner, rearrange a drawer, or organise your wardrobe. Decluttering can be surprisingly satisfying and gives you a sense of accomplishment. Plus, starting the week in a clean, refreshed space can really lift your mood. Considering Diwali is nearby, your family would also appreciate it.

3. Play Card or Board Games: Bring back some classic fun by playing card or board games with family or friends. Games like Ludo, Uno, or even a traditional pack of cards are perfect for passing the time and bringing everyone together in a way that’s both entertaining and meaningful. Or, you can try playing India’s own superstar in the board game genre, the one and only, Chess, it would be fun, exciting and impactful.

4. Catch Up on Reading: This is the perfect time to finish that book you’ve been putting off. If you’re not into books, try magazines or short stories – anything that’s offline and within reach. Reading not only takes your mind off the absence of the internet but also improves focus and imagination. Grab a warm cup of tea and dive in for a peaceful morning read.

5. Get Cooking or Baking: Take advantage of the downtime by experimenting in the kitchen. Look around for easy recipes that don’t require too many ingredients. Baking simple treats or cooking up a family meal together can be fulfilling and rewarding – not to mention delicious! Or just go to your favourite shingara place and indulge in two shingaras instead of one.

6. Touch Grass: Step outside and enjoy the beauty around you, whether on foot or with a little help from wheels. If you have a two-wheeler, or a car, or know someone who does, consider venturing beyond your neighbourhood to nearby scenic spots or the peaceful outskirts. A short drive can be a refreshing change of scenery and an ideal way to unwind. If you’d prefer something simpler, a walk in a local park or around your area is a great way to connect with nature. Touch some grass and embrace the tranquillity, tune into the sounds around you, and enjoy the moment without any digital distractions.

7. Practice a Hobby You’ve Neglected: Whether it’s sketching, knitting, playing a musical instrument, or even solving puzzles, reconnect with hobbies you’ve been too busy for. These personal activities are great stress relievers and help you get in touch with your creative side.

8. Reconnect with an Old Friend: Take this opportunity to reach out to a friend you haven’t seen in a while. They might be just as bored as you are! Give them a call, and if they’re free, plan a meet-up. Spend some time catching up, sharing stories, and simply unwinding together. Reconnecting with friends is a wonderful way to lift your spirits and make the most of your day.

An internet-free Sunday doesn’t have to be boring. It’s a chance to rediscover simple joys, connect with loved ones, and maybe even create a routine you’ll look forward to. So, let Mobile Internet Down 3.0 be an opportunity for a fresh experience. Enjoy the day, connect with the present, and you might find the unexpected pleasure of a well-spent offline Sunday.

It is a chance to live as people once did before the digital age – meeting in person, having real conversations, and truly experiencing life. Take this time to reconnect with the world around you, away from screens. Talk, laugh, and enjoy each moment. Who knows, you might just find real-life fascinating enough to fall in love with it all over again, discovering that there’s a special magic in reality that no screen can replace.