Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 11
Well Desk Launches 4-Week Phone Challenge Starting June 4
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 11

Well Desk Launches 4-Week Phone Challenge Starting June 4

2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 11
  • June 4 will mark the start of Well’s “Touch Grass” Challenge, a four-week series of weekly exercises aimed at helping readers cut back on phone use without attempting a full digital detox.
  • Five or more hours a day on phones can harm mental and physical health, the report says, citing shallower breathing, poorer sleep, altered walking patterns and shrinking attention spans.
  • Every Thursday in June, subscribers will receive one evidence-based challenge focused on going outdoors, spending time with other people and tapping creativity, guided by columnist Jancee Dunn and outside experts.
  • The monthlong program is designed to leave participants calmer and less distracted while giving them tools to better manage their time and attention after the challenge ends.
Can a month of 'touching grass' truly reverse the brain and health damage from years of constant screen time?
While we try to unplug, are tech companies engineering addiction faster than we can possibly escape it?
If 'screen apnea' is the new smoking, what systemic changes, not just personal habits, are needed to protect public health?