New York hotel reports HUGE rise in guests throwing away their PHONES during their stay – as expert details the fascinating reasons why so many people want to ditch their devices

Some people argue that cell phones have become an extension of our minds and bodies. Is it possible to ditch your cell phone for a real vacation?

A hotel in the Catskills, New York, reported that 80 percent of guests have taken on the challenge of handing over their phones and participating in a digital detox during their stay.

The Urban Cowboy Lodgewhich has a bit of an adult summer camp vibe with rustic-chic cabins and copper baths in the rooms, launched an ‘Unplug and Play’ package earlier this year and the owners have been shocked by the level of interest.

Lyon Porter, co-founder of the 26-room Urban Cowboy, which also has a location in Tennessee and is opening a Colorado location soon, told DailyMail.com: ‘The response to Urban Cowboy Lodge’s digital detox package has been incredible!

“We had hoped it would be a success, but we didn’t expect so many visitors to be willing to give up their phones for an entire weekend.”

The Urban Cowboy Lodge launched an Unplug and Play package earlier this year and owners have been shocked by the level of interest

To explore the appeal of a phone-free vacation, I signed up for an Unplug and Play vacation at Urban Cowboy Lodge. As soon as I handed in my phone, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

No one could reach me over the weekend, there was no email to check and no social media content to scroll through and feed my worries.

Urban Cowboy’s remote Catskill location doesn’t have cell service on the 67-acre property, but rooms and the main house do have Wi-Fi.

All guests who turn in their phones will instead receive a Polaroid instant camera and a few boxes of film. I enjoyed documenting this new way of capturing the weekend.

My partner opted to keep his phone, but if, like us, you’ve rented a car for the weekend, navigating without a device can be tricky if your vehicle isn’t equipped with GPS.

Towards the end of the weekend I was getting more and more afraid to pick up my phone again, so I joked to the receptionist that she could keep it.

New York psychologist Anna Yusim told DailyMail.com that doing a digital detox regularly is very important for your mental health.

She explains: ‘Taking some time away from your phone during the holidays can have a lot of psychological benefits.

There is no cell service on the 160-acre Urban Cowboy’s Catskill property, but guest rooms and the main house have Wi-Fi

Research shows that unplugging from constant digital stimulation can reduce stress, improve focus, and increase overall well-being.

‘To actively reduce phone use, people can start by setting regular phone-free periods, engaging in activities that don’t involve screens, practicing mindfulness to stay in the moment, creating technology-free zones in their living space, and gradually reducing screen time to create healthier boundaries around technology.

“By prioritizing real life experiences over digital distractions, people can develop a deeper sense of connection, relaxation and fulfillment in their free time.”

Anna shows how phones can hinder time.

1. No proper relaxation

Anna says that constant phone calls while on vacation can disrupt the relaxation process, as “our minds are kept busy with work emails, news updates and social media notifications.”

She elaborates on the negative consequences of this, adding: ‘This constant connectivity prevents our brains from fully resting and experiencing the rejuvenating effects of a real break.’

2. Less romance

If you’re looking for a little romance on your vacation, Anna recommends putting your phone away for a period of time.

She explains: ‘Excessive phone use during the holidays can hinder our ability to stay in touch with our loved ones.

“Instead of being present and engaging in meaningful interactions, we often find ourselves distracted by our devices. This can lead to feelings of disconnection and missed opportunities to connect with others.”

New York psychologist Anna Yusim told DailyMail.com that doing regular digital detoxes is very important for mental health (stock image)

3. Sleep disturbance

For a better night’s sleep, Anna recommends leaving your phone in another room at night.

She says: ‘The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt our natural sleep cycle, making it harder to relax and fall asleep.

‘If you use your phone before going to bed while on holiday, it can disrupt the quality of your sleep. You will feel tired and less rested the next day.’

4. Decreased mindfulness

“Constant phone use can hinder our ability to be present and aware during the holidays,” Anna warns.

The psychologist, who also enjoys traveling, adds: “By constantly checking messages and notifications, we distract ourselves from the beauty of our surroundings and the experiences that are happening at that moment.”

5. Impact on mental health

According to Anna, our devices can have a huge impact on our state of mind, with scientific studies proving the negative effects.

She explains: ‘Research has shown that excessive phone use, especially during the holidays, is linked to increased stress, anxiety and feelings of isolation.

‘Because we are constantly on our devices, we may be missing out on opportunities to truly relax and experience mental well-being.’

Rooms at Urban Cowboy Catskills start at $230 per nightwith facilities such as a restaurant, cinema and sauna.