Project Information
Project Reference: 2024-3-DE04-KA152-YOU-000270892
Status: Completed
Duration: January 2025 – December 2025
EU Grant: €46,976
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Youth Exchanges (KA152-YOU)
Countries Involved: Germany, Türkiye, Romania, North Macedonia, Spain, France
A Project About Digital Balance
The project Digital Detox: Reconnect with Nature was created to help young people reflect on the impact of constant digital use on their daily lives. Partners noticed that many young people experience stress, anxiety, sleep problems and social pressure connected to social media and permanent online communication. At the same time, many participants had little connection with nature and outdoor activities, even though these are important for mental wellbeing.
The exchange encouraged young people to find a healthier balance between technology and real-life experiences. The project also focused on safe online behaviour, critical thinking and respectful communication in digital spaces.
Main Goals of the Project
The project aimed to increase awareness about how social media influences self-esteem, emotions and relationships. Participants explored personal habits such as excessive scrolling, online comparison and fear of missing out. Through discussions and practical activities, they learned how digital behaviour can affect attention, mood and confidence.
Another important goal was to promote safe and positive use of social media. Young people learned about privacy, consent, cyberbullying prevention and respectful online communication. The project also encouraged participants to use digital platforms in a more responsible and constructive way.
Learning Through Nature and Outdoor Activities
Nature played a central role in the exchange. Participants joined guided walks, mindfulness sessions, outdoor teamwork challenges, creative workshops and reflection activities. These experiences helped them slow down, reduce stress and improve focus.
The programme used non-formal education methods and “learning by doing.” Working in international teams allowed participants to improve communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills without relying constantly on phones or digital devices.
International Exchange and Inclusion
The exchange took place in Osterholz-Scharmbeck, Germany, and brought together 42 young people from six countries. Participants came from different social and cultural backgrounds, including young people with fewer opportunities. The project created an inclusive environment through simple English communication, visual support, buddy systems and daily wellbeing check-ins.
The organisers focused strongly on inclusion and emotional safety. Many participants were first-time travellers or had limited international experience. The project helped them feel more confident, accepted and connected with others.
Community Engagement and Erasmus+ Learning
The programme also included activities in Bremen, where participants interacted with local communities and raised awareness about digital wellbeing and healthy offline habits. Using creative messages and small public actions, they encouraged people to reflect on screen time and reconnect with nature.
Participants also learned more about Erasmus+, Youthpass and non-formal education. Workshops helped them understand how international projects work and inspired them to develop future youth initiatives connected to wellbeing, nature and inclusion.
Results and Long-Term Impact
The project produced strong personal and social results. Many participants reported improved confidence, better communication skills and greater awareness of healthy digital habits. They learned how to create boundaries online and how to recognise harmful digital behaviours.
The exchange also strengthened intercultural understanding and built lasting friendships between young people from different countries. Participants with fewer opportunities especially benefited from the supportive environment and active participation methods.
One of the main outcomes was the creation of a practical project booklet developed by international teams. The booklet collected learning materials, creative ideas and practical tools from the exchange and will continue to support future local activities and dissemination.
Conclusion
Digital Detox: Reconnect with Nature showed how Erasmus+ youth exchanges can support mental wellbeing, inclusion and healthier lifestyles. By combining nature-based learning, intercultural dialogue and digital awareness, the project gave young people practical tools to create more balanced and positive everyday lives.
