Unplugged and Restored: Reversing the Negative Effects of Smartphone Use on Attention to Nature, Empathic Connection, and Mindfulness

We investigated whether technology-free nature immersion restores attention depleted by problematic smartphone use. Time 1 confirmed negative relationships between smartphone use in three attentional domains. After a month without devices, we found significant improvements in participants’ mindfulness and ability to direct their attention toward nature and interpersonal connections.