COLOMBO ‘ Sedang Saayang (Self-Love), an initiative by Naafia Sariffodeen, held the first-ever social media detox event at Viharamahadevi Park on September 28, with a special focus on art and creativity. Participants came together to disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves in a day of painting, laughter, and self-discovery.
The highlight of the day was a painting session, where participants expressed themselves through colors and brushstrokes, enjoying the freedom of creativity without judgment.
Hosting the event was a personal milestone for Naafia, who openly shared her nerves leading up to the day. “Hosting something for the first time was nerve-wracking. I was afraid no one would be interested at the beginning, but I ended up having six participants, and a few more texted saying they missed it,” she said.
Naafia explained her motivation behind the social media detox: “As a person who embraces self-love as a top priority, I believe social media has a huge impact on our lives. We tend to compare ourselves to celebrities or influencers and forget that each of us has different lives. We also get obsessed with scrolling and totally forget about connecting with our loved ones or experiencing life beyond the digital screen.”
Social media detoxes have gained attention in recent years for their ability to restore balance in people’s lives. Constant exposure to online platforms can create unhealthy comparisons, disrupt personal relationships, and drain mental energy. Detoxing from digital overstimulation allows individuals to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings, fostering emotional well-being and creativity.
The event also offered a serene opportunity for participants to explore the joy of painting. “No one had to be a pro in painting. I drew a unicorn, and some participants painted whatever came to mind. It was so fun,” Naafia shared with a laugh. One participant expressed their gratitude: “I got the chance to meet new people, and I felt peace and joy. Everyone was friendly, and I really had fun. look forward to more meetups.”
Naafia’s successful debut event highlights the growing importance of self-love and digital mindfulness in today’s fast-paced, connected world. With the support and enthusiasm of the participants, Naafia plans to organize more of these meetups, encouraging more people to embrace the benefits of stepping away from their screens. Follow @Sedang_Saayang on Instagram.
