All posts tagged: unplug

UK households urged to ‘switch off and unplug’ appliances on Tuesday | UK | News

UK households urged to ‘switch off and unplug’ appliances on Tuesday | UK | News

It’s another scorcher today and more hot weather is set to bake the UK again on Tuesday, the Met Office has forecast. A record breaking few days of sizzling weather will draw to an end from Wednesday, but for now, we’re all still struggling to exist in our thick, well insulated British houses, let alone work, rest or sleep. That’s why many of us will be looking to do whatever we can to cut the heat and keep our homes as cool as they possibly can be for as long as this hot spell lasts. According to charity The Red Cross, one way to cut heat in your home is to unplug and switch off appliances.This is because various appliances, especially electronics like TVs, games consoles, PCs and kitchen appliances, continue to use up electricity and produce heat when left plugged in and on standby. The Red Cross says in its guidance: “Even when in standby mode, electrical items can generate heat. Make sure any in the bedroom are turned off and unplugged.” It adds: …

In an effort to unplug, younger generations are bringing back letter writing in epic fashion

In an effort to unplug, younger generations are bringing back letter writing in epic fashion

Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter In an era dominated by digital screens and constant connectivity, a growing number of individuals are deliberately stepping back, rediscovering the tactile pleasures of vintage communication methods. From handwritten letters and typewriter clubs to the intricate art of calligraphy and wax seals, these analogue pursuits offer a refreshing antidote to the relentless pace of modern life, fostering deeper connections and a more intentional use of time. This resurgence isn’t merely nostalgic; it’s a conscious effort to reduce screen time and engage in meaningful interactions. Melissa Bobbitt, 42, a dedicated letter-writer from Claremont, California, who corresponds with about a dozen people, finds profound value in the practice. “I feel as though my pen pals are my friends. I don’t think of them much differently than if I were chatting with a friend on the phone, in a coffee shop or at another …

The best things to do in Los Angeles to relax and unplug

The best things to do in Los Angeles to relax and unplug

You’re on the phone with your boss, looking at a shared Google Doc on your computer screen, when your boyfriend calls on the other line. He wants to know if you’ve seen his text, with the Yelp reviews of the restaurant you’re headed to that night. The establishment also has texted — you need to confirm your reservation. Meanwhile, new emails are flooding your inbox and the Slack app on your laptop is pinging. Breaking news alerts are popping up on your phone screen, which also shows someone has Venmo’d you $22 (you can’t remember what for) and your social media apps are lighted up with notifications — 54 likes on the goat hiking pic so far. That’s prompted messages on your social accounts from people wanting to know where they can hike with goats too. Then your mom calls — you never returned her voicemail. Is your heart racing yet? We live out our lives on screens, meeting partners on dating apps, networking on social media, shopping online and doomscrolling to unwind. As a …