20 Exciting Activities to Keep You Away from Your Phone This Holiday

Keeping your mind and hands off your phone during the holidays can often be a difficult challenge. Sometimes it's just too hard to resist peeking at emails or social media notifications when we hear them go off when we’re so used to it. But worry not, we've compiled a list of 30 exciting yet calming activities you can do this holiday season instead of scrolling through social media or watching cat videos on YouTube.

If reconnecting with family is something on your list of priorities this festive season, then these activities might be just what the doctor ordered.

Let’s go!

1. Take a mindful walk
Dress up and get some fresh air with a scenic stroll through the neighborhood or a local park. You’ll be too busy admiring your surroundings to worry about checking your phone.

2. Decorate your home
Get some new throw pillows and some decorative frames for your walls. Let your mind wander and your hands do the talking. You can look forward to having fun in your "new" home when it's all said and done.

3. Meal prep
When things get hectic, you'll be grateful for pre-made meals that you can simply pop in the microwave. Prepare some of your favorite meals for the upcoming busy season or for when the midnight hunger pangs strike.

4. Go stargazing
Wrap up warmly and head off to a place where you can gaze up at the starry night sky. It’s the perfect time of year to get away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and appreciate the beauty of the universe.

5. Have a holiday movie marathon
Snuggle up on the couch and enjoy a festive film marathon with your family and friends. Pop some popcorn and get ready for a night of holiday cheer!

6. Bake some treats
Spend an afternoon in the kitchen baking up some festive treats. Whether you’re making kaastengels or cat’s tongue cookies, you’ll be too busy baking to ever want to reach out for your phone.

7. Take a holiday road trip
Load up the car and download the map of your destination and hit the road for a spontaneous holiday getaway.

8. Read a book
Relax with a good book and some downtime on the couch. Immerse yourself in the stories and savor the satisfying experience of turning the pages of a book.

9. Go on a nature hike
Spend some quality time in nature with a hike through the woods in search of the waterfall. You’ll get some work out while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

10. Have a karaoke session
Gather your loved ones and head to the local karaoke bar to belt it out to some tunes. You won't be worrying about your phone when you put your singing skills to the test.

11. Play a board game
Get the family together and play a board game. Whether it’s Monopoly, Scrabble, or Uno, you’ll be too busy laughing, strategizing, and competing to worry about your phone.

12. Take a class and learn something new
It’s never too late to learn something new. Sign up for a class to learn a new skill or hobby. This could be anything from cooking to painting to photography.

13. Have a spa day
Treat yourself to a decadent spa day. Relax in a hot tub, get a massage, or get your nails done. Whatever it is, you’ll be feeling fresh after the session.

14. Create a holiday or road trip playlist
Put together a playlist filled with all of your favorite songs that you can share with people and loved ones.

15. Start a garden
It doesn’t have to be ambitious. Plant some vegetables, herbs, or flowers in your backyard or balcony and watch them grow. Gardening is an activity that can keep you away from your phone and help you appreciate the beauty of nature

16. Write a letter
Take the time to sit down and write a letter to a loved one. It doesn’t have to be anything long or complicated – just letting someone know that you care can make a world of difference.

17. Go for a picnic
When was the last time you ever did this? Pack a picnic basket and head out to the park for the day. Enjoy the sunshine and the fresh air without checking your phone.

18. Take a yoga class
Yoga is a great way to stay active and practice mindfulness. Find a class near you and give it a try.

19. Have a bonfire
Gather your friends and family and have a bonfire in your backyard. Sit around the fire and enjoy the conversation without your phone.

20. Try new cuisines
Allow yourself the joy of going on a gastronomic excursion and discovering new flavors. Try a new dish that you've always been on the fence about; you could be surprised to find out that you like it!

As we enter into this swing of festivities, let us remind ourselves that it’s not only important to take breaks from our devices but also to keep an open mind and give some thought to newer experiences. To add an extra layer of relaxation this holiday season, why not treat yourself and book a staycation at Novus Giri for complete indulgence?

Our full-fledged resort in Puncak can cater to activity numbers 1, 4, 7, 9, 13, 17, 18, 19, and 20. So let's make your holiday season different and unforgettable this year!