Dopamine Detox

[Vlad_]

Last week I did 5 days of Dopamine Detox:

- no internet

- no electronic devices 

- no porn, sex or masturbation 

- no music, movies, games or tv 

- no fast food, no sugar 

- no weed, drugs or psychedelics 

 

What I experienced? 

- severe withdraw and cravings during the first few days 

- increased happiness and joy 

- reduced anxiety

- improved social skills and boost in confidence 

- improved thinking  

 

Also I've noticed how fucked up most of the people are. We've become like rats chasing one pleasure after another. 90% of the people while on public transport are using their phones, listening to music or playing games. Same shit at shopping malls, cafes, restaurants and night clubs. 

When 5 days were gone I went trough a few days of ego-backlash that included using my phone for 5 hours, watching porn, smoking weed and eating unhealthy food. 

I guess if we continue chasing pleasure without a proper balance as we are doing right now, we are going to have more problems with psychological health, reward system, depression etc. 

Most of us have no clue how addicted we are, it has become normal. Especially here, in the West.  

[ZenAlex]

I experience the same thing. From spring to autumn I avoid video games/TV and just hike a lot more and go outside. 

I feel more sensitive to life.

I still enjoy music though and audiobooks.

[B222]

@Lila9 I find when I allow “once a week” once a whenever, it just gets out of hand way too often. Do you experience the same? How do you deal with that?

Heard Leo say that the best solution is to just abstain completely, at least until the new habit is hardwired. Struggled with that so far aswell “/

[cjoseph90]

@Vlad_I love this post. Wish i could save this. thanks for sharing. I keep making the intention to do this but keep failing. Even if i plan to do it on the weekend,cos of my weak mind - i keep getting sucked in back to the screens/ instant gratification. Other than meditation what other things did you do on your detox?

[Kamo]

@Vlad_ Sounds like your ready to try Monk Mode. Its exactly as you have done here, but now you extend it for a longer period of time. 20-30 days. You incorporate more reading and meditation as your new free time.

[Realms of Wonder]

Now to find a way to integrate that into the week to week, month to month lifestyle. In a balanced, sustainable way.

[B222]

@Lila9 thanks for the detailed response. I’ll keep trying. What benefits have you experienced from no internet use for a day? 

[B222]

@Lila9 have to try, thanks again

[ReidJustin]

Dopamine detoxes can be a hot topic, and everyone's experience with them is different.  From what I've read on fherehab.com , a dopamine detox is all about taking a break from activities that give you quick dopamine hits, like social media or gaming, to reset your brain's reward system.  Some folks find it beneficial for boosting motivation and focus, while others might not notice much of a difference. It's one of those things that you kinda have to try for yourself to see how it works for you.
If you're thinking about giving it a shot, it might be worth a try! Just remember to take it easy on yourself and not be too hard if things don't go perfectly.

Edited April 22 by ReidJustin