WELLNESS
Hang Up the Phone
If one of your resolutions is to spend less time doom-scrolling this year, consider escaping to Saugatuck/Douglas for a digital detox. You deserve a weekend getaway where you can truly get away from the stressors in your life. And one of the biggest causes of anxiety, lack of focus, and difficulty sleeping is that small, rectangular device that never leaves your side.
Have you heard of the “dumbphone” trend? Citing everything from brain fog to privacy concerns, people are swapping their smart devices for classic flip phones. Those who’ve made this move report better sleep, improved relationships, and increased optimism.
If resorting to a flip phone is too extreme for you, consider scheduling a digital detox in Saugatuck/Douglas during a weekend getaway. Or, better yet, really amp up your mindfulness journey by making a week-long vacation out of it! You can bring your phone to navigate your road trip here (or, if you’re feeling adventurous, pull out that old atlas!). Once you’ve reached the Art Coast, stick that smartphone in the drawer. Our Welcome Center has plenty of “old school” printed maps and guides to help you find your way. If you’re worried you’ll get bored, here are a few suggestions to keep you from being tempted by the soft blue glow of your device.
Dare to Dream
If you’re the type of person who has difficulty sitting still, a digital detox will be a wonderful challenge. Being alone in your thoughts can be tough, especially when to-do lists and deadlines creep into your mind. To subvert these unwelcome reminders of everyday life, change the scenery.
Nature and people-watching can be wonderful distractions. The Saugatuck/Douglas area offers many beautiful parks where you can plan the perfect picnic. Relax outside, watch people pass by, and let your thoughts meander. If it’s too chilly for a picnic, check out an exhibit at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. Stroll through the gallery and invite beauty and creativity to take over your mind.
Read a Book
Has it been a while since you’ve read a good book? While away an hour browsing titles in one of our downtown bookshops, like The Book Nook of Saugatuck. Once you’ve made your selection, the possibilities are endless. Curl up by the fire at your bed and breakfast or comfy inn. (For a list of lodging with cozy fireplaces, check out our recommendations here.) If it’s warm, find a bench near Wade’s Bayou or Wicks Park and read a few chapters while the boats go by. Snuggle into a cozy table at a coffee shop like Respite Cappuccino Court or Uncommon Coffee Roasters. Or, during the summer, grab a cup of joe from Outside Coffee Co. or Basecamp Coffee and Waffles and take a seat outdoors. And, of course, there’s nothing like bellying up to a bar, cracking open your book, and savoring a glass of wine.
Bathe in the Forest
Try “forest bathing,” popular in Japan for its many health benefits. It’s no secret that spending time outdoors is good for us. Nature, in particular, is a powerful antidote to digital overload. And when it comes to the great outdoors, Saugatuck/Douglas has plenty of it.
One particularly therapeutic place to practice forest bathing is Saugatuck Dunes State Park, home to 2.5 miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline and 13 miles of forested trails. Much of this area is inhabited by coniferous trees, so even in the winter, you’ll see some green. When you’re standing atop a dune, looking out over the vast expanse of lake and sky, take a picture in your mind. Stow it away for one of those daydreaming moments.
Treat Yourself
Make digital detoxing just one part of your self-care weekend. Make sure you have a spa day on your list. Whether it’s experiencing a facial or specialty massage, we’ve got you covered with places like Bella Vita Spa or Ideal Bodyworks. Go out to dinner at one of our fabulous restaurants and pick the most decadent dessert. Buy yourself a new outfit to boost your confidence—our boutiques are brimming with options. Or spend an afternoon perusing our many galleries and take home a piece of art to commemorate your visit. The Art Coast has everything you need to enjoy a phone-free, soul-refreshing weekend away.
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