In an era where digital technology permeates every aspect of life—from work to leisure—disconnecting from your phone during vacation may seem like an insurmountable challenge. However, an increasing number of experts and tech professionals advocate for this practice, not just as a form of relaxation but as a vital necessity for mental, physical, and emotional health. They lead by example.
Hyperconnectivity as a New Source of Stress
Throughout the year, smartphones become indispensable tools. They keep us connected, organized, and informed. But they also demand our attention. Every notification, after-hours email, or urge to share an image on social media is a small interruption that prevents genuine rest.
Neuroscience studies have shown that constant device exposure activates the sympathetic nervous system, keeping us in a heightened state of alertness that hampers brain recovery. During vacations, this pattern persists unless we consciously choose to slow down.
True disconnection starts with organization
David Carrero, co-founder of Stackscale (Aire Group), a cloud infrastructure, bare-metal servers, and AI solutions company, has a clear perspective: “During my vacations, I organize the company’s teams so I can disconnect completely. I leave my phone and laptop in the hotel safe or even at home. It’s about truly resting, doing sports, reading on paper… reconnecting with what’s essential.”
Carrero, who leads a highly connected tech company, believes that rest is crucial to productivity. “Technology is here to help us, but we also need to know when to say ‘enough.’ Properly organizing workflows before leaving is key to disconnecting guilt-free,” he states.
Reducing use isn’t giving up: leveraging technology to our advantage
Not everyone can or wants to completely turn off their phones during vacation. But there are effective ways to reduce usage. Antonia González, director of Color Vivo, a company specialized in WordPress and digital media such as Noticias.Madrid or Revista Cloud, advocates for personalized disconnection. “We can take our phones, but we must be strong and limit their use as much as possible. Modern operating systems have options to restrict app usage. We should take advantage of them,” she recommends.
González emphasizes that the key lies in balance: “Vacations are not just for physical rest but for renewing focus, creativity, and presence with loved ones. If we’re glued to our phones, we remain on autopilot.”
Beyond rest: real benefits of disconnecting
Science backs what Carrero and González practice:
- Stress reduction: cortisol levels drop significantly within 48-72 hours of disconnection.
- Improved sleep quality: reducing screen time helps normalize melatonin production.
- Increased creativity: a brain free from digital stimuli can activate its default mode network, where the most original ideas emerge.
- Stronger relationships: free from distractions, conversations deepen, and shared time becomes more meaningful.
Disconnect to lead better
Both Carrero and González agree that disconnecting during vacations benefits not only individuals but also their teams. “Returning rested and mentally clear is essential for making sound decisions and tackling new challenges,” says Carrero.
González adds that this practice should be an unwritten rule in tech companies: “Leading by example is important. When team leaders disconnect, others feel authorized to do the same. It’s about organizational health.”
Conclusion: a necessary pause in a hyperconnected world
Turning off your phone during vacation isn’t a luxury; it’s a form of self-care. A conscious pause that allows you to recharge not only your body but also your mind. As figures like David Carrero and Antonia González understand, digital disconnection isn’t about abandoning technology but about choosing when and how to use it.
Because, ultimately, being truly connected to life—what we see, feel, and share authentically—sometimes requires turning off the screen.
And you, do you dare to disconnect to reconnect with what truly matters?