10 ways to unplug and disconnect around Edmonton

It’s a new year, and many of us are trying to break a few bad habits. One of the biggest? Mindlessly scrolling on our phones (and let’s be real, it’s not acknowledged nearly as much as it should be).

To help, we’ve put together a guide of ways to actually be present in Edmonton. From self-care to crafts to stargazing under one of the largest dark sky preserves in the country, here are 10 ways to unplug and unwind.

Immerse yourself in nature

Forest bathing may be a buzzy wellness term right now, but grounding yourself in nature certainly has its benefits, and we have no shortage of that in Edmonton. With so much forest cover, chances are you’re only a short walk from a park or trail that feels worlds away from the city. Turn off your phone, or leave it in the car (or at home), take a deep breath, and spend a few quiet moments actually being where you are.

Join a local sports team

Signing up for a sports club checks a lot of boxes at once. You get moving, meet new people, and you get to put your phone away for a couple of hours without even thinking about it. With a wide mix of indoor and outdoor leagues offered through the Edmonton Sport and Social Club, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll find something you enjoy.

Try an art class

From workshops at Pico Ceramics to all sorts of classes offered through the City Arts Centre, Edmonton is packed full of talented artists looking to share their skills and knowledge with others in the city. Get your hands muddy on a pottery wheel, learn the basics of digital photography, or try oil painting for the first time. Once you’re focused on making something, you probably won’t think about your phone at all.

Muttart Conservatory

Be amazed at the stunning Muttart Conservatory, with each glass pyramid showcasing a different environment for plants from around the globe. It’s a relaxing, insightful, and beautiful experience and a lovely thing to do in Edmonton.

Try a cooking class

From workshops at L’OCA to sessions hosted at the Stanley A. Milner Library, cooking classes are a great way to learn something new and unplug for a couple of hours. Besides, do you really want to be pulling your dirty phone in and out of your pocket while you’re elbow-deep in focaccia dough?

Live theatre

This is one place where using your phone is strongly discouraged (frowned upon, even), making it ideal if you’re serious about breaking the habit. Support local artists and tap into Edmonton’s blossoming theatre scene by checking out spots like the Walterdale Theatre, Varscona Theatre, the Grindstone, and more.

Go to the reuse centre and get crafty

The Reuse Centre is a unique gem in Edmonton that we should all cherish. Whether you’re making a papier-mache horse or anything else your heart desires, it should be your first stop when a craft idea strikes. You can use your phone for inspiration if you want, but once it’s time to actually make something, you won’t be needing it.

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Visit a cute independent bookstore

A no-brainer when you want to replace the endless stream of information on your device is, well, a good old book. From the Wee Book Inn to Daisy Chain, Porch Light, Magpie, Paper Birch, and beyond, Edmonton is full of amazing local and independent bookshops that are well worth checking out, and there’s no doubt you’ll find something you like.

Book a spa visit

It’s a new year, so why not refresh and rejuvenate with a trip to the spa? Leave the outside world (and your phone) behind and explore the many spa options Edmonton has to offer. Whether it’s a Japanese Head Spa or a full head-to-toe treatment at Bliss Medi Spa, you’ll walk out feeling amazing.

Go stargazing

We live right next door to the enormous 300 sq km Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, with Elk Island National Park right in the middle, so why not take advantage? Wait for a clear night or track when the northern lights are expected. You definitely won’t catch the show if you’re staring at your phone.