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A Global Celebration and Initiatives
The World Digital Detox Day (WDDD) 2024 witnessed phenomenal success, bringing together ambassadors, organizations, and individuals across 70+ countries to address the pressing issue of digital dependency. With the theme “Smartphone-Free Childhood” ,this year’s events focused on protecting young minds, fostering meaningful connections, and creating awareness about mindful technology use.
A highlight of the 2024 celebrations was the unprecedented event held at Mantralaya, Maharashtra, India, marking a new milestone in WDDD's journey. Below are the detailed accounts of global celebrations and their profound impact.
Highlights of the Day
1. Prestigious Celebration at Mantralaya Mumbai, Maharashtra, INDIA:
The World Digital Detox Day Indian Office organized an extraordinary event at Mantralaya, the administrative headquarters of the Government of Maharashtra. This iconic and highly significant venue, rarely granted for any organizational events, was made available to WDDD due to the burning societal relevance of the movement.
Key Highlights :
1. Powerful Panel Discussions:
Experts from various fields, including education, wellness, and digital safety, participated in panel discussions addressing the impact of excessive screen time, the importance of digital detoxification, and strategies to promote mindful digital habits.
Click here to view highlights.
2. Awards Ceremony:
Individuals and organizations that made remarkable contributions to digital wellness were recognized for their efforts. These awards emphasized the role of collective action in driving the WDDD mission forward.
3. Art Showcase:
A stunning exhibition displayed the winning entries from previous painting and drawing competitions held across India. The artworks, created by children aged 15-19, reflected profound thoughts on digital mindfulness and the importance of reconnecting with nature, family, and friends.
Learn more about WDDD Event at Mantralaya here.
Key Activities Across the Globe with Ambassadors:
- Argentina:
Ambassador: Eduardo Finci , Asociación Americana de Spa
- In Buenos Aires,With Gabriela Gergic the CAIPAC school for deaf and hard-of-hearing children hosted an inspiring day featuring reflections on digital detoxification, face-to-face play, and conscious eating.
- On Saturday, December 7, the renowned Sport School Tu Juega, with over 20 years of experience, hosted an impactful event under the leadership of Director Gabriela Cianni. This end-of-year celebration provided an opportunity to spread awareness and reflect on the conscious use of digital devices. The event brought together more than 100 families and over 110 children who regularly attend sports and recreational workshops at the school.
- The gathering featured a showcase of activities performed by the school’s athletes and teachers throughout the year. Diplomas were awarded, and families were introduced to the principles of digital detoxification. Each family left with a copy of the World Digital Detox Day Manifesto, empowering them to take the first steps toward mindful technology use in their daily lives.
World Digital Detox Day at CAIPAC School, Buenos Aires!
- Taj Hotels - India
Ambassador: Sushmita Sarngi
This World Digital Detox Day, the need for mindful technology use was championed by J Wellness Circle, IHCL’s holistic wellness brand, and light was shed on the profound effects of digital consumption on mental health and human connections. Across 55+ J Wellness Circle spas at Taj, Selections, Gateway, and Vivanta Hotels, over 130+ sessions were conducted, engaging more than 3,000 participants and emphasizing the importance of balance.
Sessions for over 1,000 community participants, including children from more than 20 welfare homes and local communities, were hosted, with a focus on mindfulness, digital literacy, and the benefits of reconnecting with nature.
For guests, restorative therapies such as Sukshma Vyama, Pranayama, Yoga Nidra, a Dhoop Ritual, Trataka, meditation, journaling, reading, and Mandala painting were offered by J Wellness Circle.
The experience was further enriched by the exclusive ‘Slumber Lounges’ at select Taj Hotels, where serene, gadget-free havens were provided for quiet introspection, board games, puzzles, and creative expressions.
Read more about J Wellness Circle & Taj Hotels initiative.
- Mexico:
Ambassador: Fran Lugo
In Guadalajara, a conference targeted teachers, parents, and educational leaders, raising awareness about digital addictions and promoting a screen-free childhood hosted by Ambassador Olga Gonzalez.
World Digital Detox Day in Guadalajara, Mexico
- Bhutan:
Ambassador: Ram Chatterjee, Country Director of Wellness, Six Senses Bhutan
A total of 10 events were organized with taxi drivers, schoolchildren, and hotel employees. Six Senses Hotels shared SOPs for reducing screen time globally, encouraging mindful practices for individuals working long hours on computers.
Key Highlights :
- World Digital Detox Day (WDDD) pre-celebration was held in the beautiful country of Bhutan, where the concept of digital fasting was discussed, and the importance of wellness in the lives of students was emphasized. Over 200 students and teachers were brought together, with many engaged and passionate individuals supporting each other on this journey toward greater well-being. Click Here to Watch the Celebration!
- A remote school in Bhutan was visited to promote the practice of digital fasting.
- A wonderful WDDD event was hosted at Pelkhil School, where a community of over 300 enthusiastic students and teachers was brought together. Watch more from Pekhil School, Bhutan
- A serene meditation session was thoughtfully organized alongside a picturesque, flowing river, providing a tranquil setting for mindfulness and reflection. Experience the serenity of this meditation session here.
- South Korea:
Ambassador: Laura McLuckie
Under the visionary leadership of our incredible Laura Mcluckie WDDD Co-Ambassador, the celebration has taken off with inspiring initiatives that emphasize the importance of digital wellness.
A major highlight of this celebration is the recognition of Cassia Sokcho, the first partner hotel of WDDD in Korea. Their commitment to digital wellness has been honored with the Digital Wellness Management Award, presented to the General Manager. Cassia Sokcho has set the stage with:
- Thoughtful table banners in every dining space, inspiring mindfulness.
- A variety of impactful activities promoting the digital detox mission.
Read more about South Korea's initiative.
- Maldives:
Ambassador: Heidi Grimwood | Vice President at ELE|NA
- Eight ELE|NA locations celebrated with yoga, mindfulness sessions, and nature walks, reflecting this year’s theme, “Smartphone-Free Childhood.” Read More.
Supporting Ambassador: Adrianna Lawera | Wellbeing Coach & Somatic Healing Guide
- Disconnect to Reconnect: A two-day event titled 'Human Connection vs Digital Connectivity' was successfully held, focusing on Employee Wellbeing.
- The event took place at the stunning Royal Island Resort & Spa and was expertly facilitated in collaboration with Dhanya Sreekumari.
- An 'Emotional Detox' event was thoughtfully organized to promote emotional wellbeing by encouraging participants to step away from digital distractions. The event was hosted at The Wellness Club in collaboration with Heat Health & Fitness and Aishath Shifana Wajeeh in Malé, Maldives.
Have a look at Adrianna Lawera initiative !
- Vietnam:
Ambassador: Hylton Lipkin
- Fusion Da Nang hosted digital fasting sessions promoting wellness and mindfulness.
- On December 10, Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion hosted a series of rejuvenating activities to celebrate World Digital Detox Day. Guests participated in a nature walk, zipline and highwire adventures, and enjoyed a relaxing hot spring soak, all aimed at encouraging a mindful disconnection from digital devices and a reconnection with nature.
- Bali:
Ambassador: John T.G. Nielsen
Fivelements Retreat Bali engaged participants with nature-based mindfulness activities and digital detox workshops.
Click here to view the highlights of the celebration at Fivelements Retreat Bali.
- Italy:
Ambassador: Angelica Maran
SKYY and C.O.D.E celebrated with guided mindful breathing sessions led by Cristina, emphasizing intentional technology use.
Here are a few glimpses of the inspiring activities that took place:
- One hour of complete disconnection was observed, guided by experienced coach Cristina Bucci, who led a session of mindful breathing focused on inner qualities.
- A moment was provided to pause, breathe, and reconnect with oneself. The approach was not centered on "disconnecting" from technology but on learning to use it intentionally, without allowing it to become overwhelming. See updates shared by the SKYY !
- United Kingdom:
Ambassador: Francesca Canzano Franklin
- Spokesperson: Sue Atkins World Digital Detox Day Bonus Episode:
- Practical Tips and Insights from Sue Atkins and Friends
In a special bonus episode of "Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends," Sue Atkins delves into the transformative impact of digital detoxing, particularly in the context of modern parenting.
This episode features insightful conversations with Angeline Corvaglia, an expert in online safety and AI literacy, and Chris Sciullo, a dedicated Digital Wellness Coach. Together, they share actionable strategies for families to find balance in their tech use, highlighting practical steps such as tech-free dinners, family game nights, and cultivating awareness of digital habits.
Listeners are introduced to Sue's latest book and exclusive resources designed to help families start meaningful conversations about technology. The episode also includes engaging audience questions, inspiring success stories, and expert tips to motivate families to embrace digital wellness in their daily lives.
Listen to the Podcast Episode Now!
- Spanish-Speaking Panel Experts:
An online session for Spanish-speaking ambassadors was organized by Mexico, Puebla Francisco Lugo ‘Go Well Magazine’, with efforts aimed at spreading the message across Spanish-speaking countries. This initiative has been greatly appreciated for its significant impact. The session featured esteemed ambassadors such as Olga González (Psychologist and Book Author), Eduardo Finci (American SPA Association), Cristina Muquinche (Sándalo Center), and Gabriela Gergic (Vice Director of Wello Academy).
- Spain:
Ambassador: Rita Ayala, Founder of Ayres de Spa
- Grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with BEDSON, fostering mindfulness, vitality, and holistic well-being sessions.
Click here to view the celebration at BEDSON.
- With a smartphone-free childhood as the theme, Metro and PGA League tournaments were organized by Rita Ayala. Children were challenged, guided to overcome fears, and encouraged to develop values like concentration and respect. This was made possible by parents inspiring their children to connect with nature and reduce screen time.
Click here to view the highlights of Metro & PGA league Tournament.
- Jamaica:
Ambassodar: Davia Ellis
- Events organised at Emancipation Park on November 30, 2024, for a day of connection, wellness, and play!
- Practiced mindfulness with yoga, meditation, and breathwork.
- Focused on pediatric health and promoting a healthier future for our kids.
- Slovenia
Ambassodar: Iztok Altbauer
Spearheaded community programs that resonated deeply with participants, promoting digital balance and mindfulness.
- France
Ambassodar: Verena Lasvigne
Hosted creative events, focusing on reducing screen dependency and promoting mental wellness.
- Brazil
Community centers initiated Digital-free family game nights, fostering creativity and strengthening relationships among participants.
Special Panels and Discussions:
Four day Panel discussions were held on 2024 Theme - ‘’Smartphone-free Childhood” along with mindfulness, stress management, and the benefits of disconnecting from technology. These events, led by mental health experts and lifestyle coaches, saw participation from various attendees.
- Key Highlights:
December 6th: Francesca Canzano Franklin, John T.G. Nielsen, and Dr. Rekha Chaudhari shared insights on reclaiming balance in a hyperconnected world.
Click here to watch the full discussion.
December 7th: Esteemed speaker Mr. Ram Chatterjee led discussions on digital mindfulness.
Click here to watch the full discussion on LinkedIn.
December 8th: Davis Ellis (Jamaica), Abdelkarim Benabdellah (Tunisia), Iryan Hryban (Ukraine), and Dr. Rekha Chaudhari engaged in a thought-provoking panel on global digital detox strategies.
Click here to watch the full discussion on LinkedIn.
December 9th:
- Spanish-speaking experts Fran Lugo, Olga González, Gabriela Gergic, Eduardo Finci, and Cristina Muquinche discussed conscious technology use.
- As part of the World Digital Detox Day celebrations, an engaging panel discussion centered on the 2024 theme, "Smartphone-Free Childhood." The event featured an inspiring talk by Jean Guy de Gabriac and a special address by Dr. Rekha Chaudhari, the Founder of World Digital Detox Day.
Click here to watch the full discussion on LinkedIn.
Community Engagement Programs:
- The Narayana Group: Engaged 6,50,000 students across India in digital detox activities. Click here to view the Highlights from the celebration.
- Sinhgad Institutes, Pandharpur: More than 6,000 people participated in the World Digital Detox Day, joining a session dedicated to promoting digital wellness, organized by the Pandharpur organization in India.
Students performed street plays and slogans during a traditional Dindi procession, emphasizing mindful digital use. Click here to view highlights of the activities.
- Rayat Shikshan Sanstha's Dada Patil Mahavidyalaya commemorated World Digital Detox Day (WDDD) by organizing a meaningful event focused on awareness and mindfulness. The program included an oath-taking ceremony, where students and faculty pledged to reduce unnecessary screen time and prioritize real-world connections and personal well-being.
Following this, an insightful lecture was delivered, emphasizing the importance of balancing digital usage with mental and physical health.
Click here to view the photos from the celebration.
- SVERI's College of Engineering organized a Prabhat Pheri (early morning rally), where students and staff marched together, promoting the message of maintaining a balanced lifestyle by disconnecting from digital devices periodically.
In addition, the college held painting and sketching competitions, encouraging participants to express their creative interpretations of digital detoxification and its benefits.
Click here to view the photos from the celebration.
- Uttar Maharashtra Schools: More than 150,000 children took an Oath to adopt a smartphone-free lifestyle, Spread the message across their community.
Digital Detox Challenges:
- Organizations and schools organized "24-Hour No-Device Challenges," inspiring participants to disconnect from their gadgets for a full day.
- Sojar Pharmacy College banned mobile phones and have seen fabulous changes in the students' behaviour. They issued a thanks giving letter to the World Digital Detox Day organization.
- Click here to view the Letter.
Impact and Reach
- World Digital Detox Day 2024 reached 7.5 million offline supporters across 70+ countries.
Social media platforms were abuzz with the hashtags #WorldDigitalDetoxDay #WDDD2024 #PanelDiscussion #DigitalWellness #MindfulLiving #ReclaimBalance #UnplugToReconnect #wddd #10th dec #smartphone free childhood #wellness program #offline lisa luxury #digital fasting #smartphone freelife #world digital detox day, garnering impressions and number of posts, emphasizing the collective commitment to reducing digital dependency.
- The World Digital Detox Day (WDDD) Launch Comics, centered around the theme of digital wellness, was officially unveiled on December 10th.
- WDDD Foundation Promotes "Smartphone-Free Childhood" Through National Art Competition:
The WDDD Foundation successfully organized a national-level drawing, painting, and sketching competition under its 2024 theme, "Smartphone-Free Childhood."
The event attracted over 100 young artists from across the country, who beautifully depicted the essence of a childhood unburdened by screens through their artwork.
The stunning creations of these talented participants displayed outside the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai, one of India’s most prestigious art venues. This exhibition not only highlights the artistic brilliance of young minds but also sends a powerful message about the importance of fostering creativity and meaningful connections in a digital-dominated world.
Click here to see highlights from Jehangir Art Gallery!
Quotes from Organizers
- " It was a joy to witness the remarkable celebrations around the globe, and I gained many insights through this platform. Personally, it was a transformative experience for me. We communicated a simple yet powerful message: “Reduce screen time and reconnect with the real world,” said Ram Chatterjee -Country Director of Wellness, Six Senses Bhutan.
- “ A great initiative to create awareness and get not just Indians but the world to care for wellbeing.” - Priyanka Parshurami Sub-Editor of Professional Beauty Hairdressers Journal India (PBHJ).
- “World Digital Detox Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being truly present. Through our philosophy of ‘Wellness Your Way™’ and our belief in ‘Wellness for All,’ we aim to create spaces where everyone—from our guests to our teams—can disconnect, recharge, and rediscover the beauty of the present moment.”- Heidi Grimwood ELE|NA
- ” It is so heartening to see the efforts and commitment of this group and the wellness industry at large for such a meaningful and relevant cause.” - Sushmita Sarangi Commercial Director Jiva and Niu&Nau at IHCL
About World Digital Detox Day
World Digital Detox Day, is a global initiative dedicated to creating awareness about the importance of balancing technology and well-being. Celebrated annually on December 10, the day encourages individuals, families, and organizations to embrace the benefits of a digital detox.
Since its inception, WDDD has engaged millions of participants globally, advocating for technology-free lifestyles and creating a platform for meaningful discussions on how digital consumption affects mental health and human connection.
Join the Movement
Be part of the World’s Largest Digital Wellness Movement and help us create a healthier future where “Offline is the New Luxury.” Together, we can protect the next generation, promote mental well-being, and find peace in a smartphone-free life.
For media inquiries, please contact:
World Digital Detox Day
Dr. Rekha Chaudhari
Founder, World Digital Detox Day
Website: www.worlddigitaldetoxday.com
Email: info@worlddigitaldetoxday.com
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