Viral 'Analog Bag Challenge' Encourages 48-Hour Digital Detox

Gen Z-led trend promotes unplugging from phones to boost creativity and reduce stress

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A growing trend called the 'Analog Bag Challenge' is encouraging people, especially those in Gen Z, to unplug from digital devices for 48 hours and instead engage with analog activities like journaling, crafting, and reading. Experts say this can help reduce stress and restore focus by giving the brain a break from the constant stimulation of smartphones and social media.

Why it matters

As technology has advanced rapidly, many people have become increasingly dependent on and addicted to their digital devices. The 'Analog Bag Challenge' aims to push back against this trend, highlighting the mental health benefits of taking a break from constant connectivity and screen time.

The details

The 'Analog Bag Challenge' involves filling a bag with analog items like notebooks, magazines, word puzzles, and a Polaroid camera, then refraining from using any apps or scrolling on a phone for 48 hours. Participants report feeling less stressed and more focused after completing the challenge, which engages the brain differently than rapid digital stimulation.

  • The 'Analog Bag Challenge' has been gaining popularity on social media in recent months.
  • Participant Maddy Tolman completed the 48-hour challenge and said she would even consider extending it further.

The players

Maddy Tolman

A young woman who admits to being addicted to her smartphone and agreed to participate in the 'Analog Bag Challenge' to curb her digital habits.

Dr. Jackie Nelson

A psychologist with Intermountain Health who explains how digital activities can overstimulate the brain, while analog pursuits allow for more creative thinking and relaxation.

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What they’re saying

“I don't even realize I'm on my phone anymore. I go to text my mom a question, and before I know it, I'm on Instagram, reels scrolling. It's been like, three hours, and here I am still scrolling.”

— Maddy Tolman (ksltv.com)

“Our brains are just so tired. When you're scrolling, you're really shifting quickly between dopamine and cortisol. So you're more on edge. Your heartbeat might go a little bit faster. You're more hyper vigilant.”

— Dr. Jackie Nelson, Psychologist, Intermountain Health (ksltv.com)

“It just gives more opportunity for that creative thinking, slowing down our processes, allowing our brains to rest.”

— Dr. Jackie Nelson, Psychologist, Intermountain Health (ksltv.com)

“The buildup of technology over time, from a historical standpoint, has been incredibly fast, and our brains don't know how to keep up with it.”

— Dr. Jackie Nelson, Psychologist, Intermountain Health (ksltv.com)

“I would keep going with it. I would even go for longer.”

— Maddy Tolman (ksltv.com)

What’s next

Experts suggest that the 'Analog Bag Challenge' could inspire more people to experiment with digital detoxes and find ways to better balance their use of technology in daily life.

The takeaway

The 'Analog Bag Challenge' highlights the mental health benefits of unplugging from digital devices, even temporarily, and engaging in more mindful, creative activities. As technology continues to rapidly advance, finding ways to restore focus and calm through analog pursuits may become an increasingly important practice.