Turn off to tune in: Digital disconnection, digital consciousness, and meaningful leisure

This think piece reflects on the pervasiveness of smartphones-and the constant connection to information, entertainment, and social connections through the internet-in our lives and the implications for this in leisure. While the benefits of smartphones are well-established, and it seems we are well-served by them, the nuanced, cumulative negative consequences of smartphone use have become apparent. Building from these concerns and employing the theoretical framework of digital well-being, this think piece explores the role, value, and functionality of digital disconnection to enhance meaningful leisure. Further, it explores the notion of digital consciousness, which describes not only self-control of technology use, but also the role of personal choice and agency in deciding where technology should exist within one's life and their leisure.