Tiffany Shlain Tech Shabbat Prep

Prepare your environment and communication tools to unplug from screens for twenty-four hours using Tiffany Shlain's tech shabbat routine. This short ritual handles necessary logistics before powering down all digital devices.

5 time blocks, 35 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Print Physical Guides and Maps: 10 min
Print directions, recipes, and contact numbers for the day ahead
Set Out of Office Notice: 5 min
Send final messages and set autoresponders on email
Gather Offline Books and Activities: 10 min
Set out physical books, notebooks, candles, and board games
Power Down Devices: 5 min
Shut off all smartphones, tablets, computers, and screens
Store Electronics Out of Sight: 5 min
Place all powered down devices in a designated box or drawer

About this routine

Filmmaker and author Tiffany Shlain created a weekly ritual called Tech Shabbat, turning off all screens for twenty-four continuous hours from Friday evening to Saturday evening. To make a full day without internet feasible, Shlain performs a structured setup beforehand. Tiffany Shlain's tech shabbat routine ensures that practical needs are covered so that stepping away from technology feels seamless rather than stressful.

The preparation focuses on shifting essential information from digital screens onto paper. Before turning off devices, Shlain prints out needed driving directions, weekly schedules, recipes, and landline phone numbers for emergency contacts. Setting autoresponders on email and notifying close contacts eliminates the urge to check incoming messages during the disconnect.

The final stage involves physical separation. Once all devices are fully powered down, they are placed out of sight inside a designated box or drawer. Surrounding the living space with analog items like physical books, journals, candles, and board games helps create an environment ready for rest and face to face connection.

Why this routine works

Prevents mid day screen reliance by printing necessary directions and recipes
Reduces communication anxiety through out of office notifications
Creates clear boundaries between work week demands and personal rest
Prepares physical space with analog books and games for screen free focus

FAQ

What is Tiffany Shlain's tech shabbat routine?

It is a weekly ritual of turning off all screens for twenty-four hours, supported by a brief preparation session to print schedules and store devices.

How long does the Tech Shabbat preparation take?

The preparation takes 35 minutes to complete, covering printouts, notifications, and storing all screens out of sight.

Why print directions and landline numbers before a digital detox?

Printing essential information prevents the need to unlock smartphones or look at screens during the offline day.

Sources

24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week by Tiffany Shlain
How to Do a Tech Shabbat, NPR

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