If you’re like me and planning on making a change this year, especially when it comes to your phone and doomscrolling, you’re not alone. In fact, according to a new survey, you might already be participating in one the latest wellness trends.
What Dopamine Fasting Means as a Wellness Trend
The wellness trend known as “dopamine fasting” is essentially about taking intentional breaks from activities that provide instant gratification. That can include things like social media, binge-watching shows, alcohol, video games, or constantly checking the news.
READ MORE: This is How Texans are Approaching New Year’s Resolutions
It’s not about cutting everything out forever, and it’s not an exact science. The term itself gets used loosely online. But at its core, it’s really about being more mindful of how often we’re plugged in- and choosing when to step away.
Even if you’d never call it dopamine fasting, the behavior behind it probably sounds familiar.
This Texas City Leads the Dopamine Fasting Trend
According to the survey, which analyzed habits in 40 major U.S. cities, one Texas city stands out above the rest.
READ MORE: Top Texas City to Move to if You Need a Fresh Start
That city is, not surpring, Austin, which ranked No. 1 overall for dopamine fasting. A large share of residents said they support or participate in the trend, with especially high rates of people taking breaks from social media, TV and movies, and alcohol.
Many also reported that their breaks tend to last longer than a week, helping Austin earn the top score nationwide.
Why This Trend Feels Relatable Right Now
The timing makes sense. Our phones are louder than ever, notifications never stop, and “just checking one thing” has a way of turning into 45 minutes without warning! I’ve been there.
That’s why this trend feels less like a strict wellness rule and more like a shared realization. People aren’t trying to overhaul their lives- they just want a little breathing room. Less scrolling. Fewer alerts. Which, I can’t deny, is what I’m seeking this year, and I intend to stick to it!
Even if the name sounds a little kooky, the desire behind it feels very real. You don’t have to call it dopamine fasting. You don’t have to follow a plan. And you definitely don’t have to make it your whole personality.
At the end of the day, this trend is really about intention, choosing when to unplug instead of being plugged in all the time. If your New Year’s resolution is simply to doomscroll less and be a little more present, it looks like you’re already on trend.
Did You Know These Celebs Live in The Austin, Texas Area?
You never know who you might run into in Austin. Here’s a list of 19 celebs that live in and around Austin.
Gallery Credit: AZ, Townsquare Media
Austin to South Padre Island: A Texas Vacation Photo Gallery
Gallery Credit: Chaz
