Exploring Life & Business with Nidhi Gupta of Phreedom Foundation (Ungrip Devices. Grip Life)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nidhi Gupta

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a mother, pediatric endocrinologist, and digital wellness coach in Franklin. For the past decade we have been at the forefront of a movement to help people reengage by disengaging from their electronic devices, social media in particular. Our nonprofit Phreedom Foundation is the engine behind that movement.

My exploration of digital wellness began in 2014, when unusual personal and professional observations led me to question the relationship that I saw forming between humans and technology – a deep, passionate, intimate, co-dependent relationship.

I sought answers from the internet, but the more I learned, the more I realized there was something questionable about our newfound love affair with a piece of metal which we insisted on always keeping on us. It became clear that this novel technology was more than just a way to “connect” with others. In fact, it had the opposite effect of making us more disconnected.

I wanted to understand more about this paradox, so I started an in-depth study of the medical literature, devouring over 600 research articles on the subject, and more than 300 blogs. The strategies that I share in my workshops are guided by my research that followed. Soon, I launched a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization named Phreedom Foundation (Ungrip Devices. Grip Life) [Phreedom = Phone Freedom].

The mission of the foundation is to empower lives, one family and one screen at a time. The foundation is about more than just reducing screen time; it’s about reclaiming a life of purpose, forging authentic connections, and nurturing the bonds that truly matter.

We organize seminars, webinars, workshops, retreats, and unplugged dining events. I teach digital wellness at schools, colleges, parent nights, businesses, mental health conferences, corporate events, and community education programs, online and in workshops all around the world.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest challenge in our foundation’s work has been the need to define our target audience.

If someone spoke about screen time, there is typically little doubt as to who the perceived audience is: children and parents of children who are trying their best to minimize their kids’ screen time. However, the idea of screen time and digital wellness from my perspective is broad. It involves an emphasis on educating the adults about their own digital wellness first. And while there are many differences in how I approach it with children vs. adults, there are many similarities as well.

When parents model healthy habits – like eating well and exercising daily – kids naturally follow suit. The same goes for digital wellness. I started off studying children’s screen time, but quickly realized that adults need help, too. Adults struggling with digital wellness are inadvertently passing these habits on to their kids.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Phreedom is a playful twist on the words “freedom” and “phone.” It stands for “Freedom from the smartPhone [and all other wireless mobile devices].” But don’t get us wrong—our mission isn’t to give up our smartphones completely. Instead, it’s about finding freedom by using our devices more mindfully, so they enhance our lives without taking over.

Our Goals
We’re not anti-technology, we’re pro-balance.

Our goal is to educate and inspire individuals to regain control over their time and attention, allowing them to discover the joys of life beyond screens.

Why We Exist?
In today’s digital age, it’s easy to get swept away by our devices. But too much screen time drains our focus, energy, and even our happiness.

Empowering lives in a digital age, our foundation is dedicated to shedding light on the grip of smart devices and its profound effects on our bodies and minds.

What We Do?
Through group and individual workshops, seminars, and coaching sessions, we help individuals rediscover the lost treasures of time, focus, and vitality.

Our work helps people rediscover the joys of real-life connections, hobbies, and moments of mindfulness.

Join us as we embark on a transformational quest to harmonize the digital realm with the real world.

Together, we can achieve a life where technology enriches rather than engulfs, where every moment counts, and where the path to fulfillment is illuminated by a balanced relationship with our devices.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We organize seminars, webinars, workshops, retreats, and unplugged dining events. We teach digital wellness at schools, colleges, parent nights, businesses, mental health conferences, corporate events, and community education programs, online and in workshops all around the world.

Please reach out to us at connect@phreedom.net to schedule a digital wellness workshop for your school, employees, and community. Our website is https://www.reconnect.expert

We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Through your help, we can achieve far more together than separate. To donate to Phreedom Foundation, please visit: https://www.reconnect.expert/donate

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.reconnect.expert/default
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/KAP-Pediatric-EndocrinologyPhreedom-Foundation/61558386911892/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8PDjE9DhKIGT1Xv3eMvv6A