With wellness resolutions top of mind this January, Cam Johnson of Cox Communications offers tips on how a “digital detox” can provide a mental break from technology and improve overall health.

• “Research shows too much time online can lead to stress and mental health concerns,” Johnson said. “Consider a digital detox with these strategies to help lessen anxiety, boost mental wellbeing and even improve feelings of connectedness.”

First, Johnson suggests tracking screen time on a daily or weekly basis to understand technology usage. Reserving certain windows for online activities or setting an alarm to limit device use over the course of a day can help achieve this.

Additionally, Johnson advises using Cox’s Panoramic Wifi system to pause or restart home wifi access on demand or on a schedule. This is especially helpful for parents who want to encourage their children to become readers or focus on offline activities.

For those looking to completely unplug from social media and other apps, Johnson recommends switching to a basic phone like the TCL FLIP 2 available through Cox Mobile.

• While still enabling texting, calls and email management, the basic display and keypad remove some of the infinite distractions of a smartphone.

Johnson also advises utilizing Cox Mobile’s Pay as You Gig plan, which charges for data usage each month only as needed. This can streamline spending while limiting time online.

Finally, Johnson says your digital detox doesn’t just have to be about minimizing screen time. You might also want to detox your network and devices from cyber threats or outside intruders. Johnson says Cox offers multiple tools to help monitor real-time security risks and protect your identity.

“This way, you’ll know your personal information is secure,” he said. “And when you do decide to plug back in, you can have peace of mind when spending time online.”