Can Dopamine Fasting Improve Our Lives?

Dopamine fasting is a modern practice aimed at reducing stimulation from everyday activities that trigger dopamine release—such as social media, junk food, video games, or even conversation—with the goal of “resetting” the brain’s reward system. The idea is based on the neuroscience of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, pleasure, and habit formation.

Advocates believe that by temporarily abstaining from high-dopamine activities, individuals can regain control over compulsive behaviors, reduce overstimulation, and increase sensitivity to everyday pleasures. Critics, however, argue that the concept oversimplifies dopamine’s role in the brain and misrepresents how neurochemical systems actually work. Nonetheless, dopamine fasting can spark meaningful reflection on modern habits, addiction, and the importance of intentionality in how we spend our time.

• What do you think motivates people to try dopamine fasting? Is it more about self-discipline or reclaiming attention?
• Which modern behaviors or technologies do you think are most responsible for overstimulating our brains?
• How does dopamine fasting compare to more traditional practices like meditation, silent retreats, or religious fasting?
• Are there potential psychological or emotional downsides to depriving ourselves of stimulation, even temporarily?
• In what ways might a more intentional relationship with pleasure and reward improve our mental health or quality of life?

What is 'dopamine fasting' and is it good for you?
https://youtu.be/7E8CPBzP1lI?si=SAuo4SomuG-1PH5x

Dopamine Fasting 2.0 - Overcome Addiction & Restore Motivation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCWADjUA9iI

Does Dopamine Detoxing Actually Work?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8pg-4c0j3s

**********************************************************************************************
In addition to the main topic (above), we also provide breakout rooms at 8pm as follows:
“Applied Practical Philosophy” – philosophy and its applications
“Town Square” – politics and current events
“Conference Room” – open for anything
“The Lounge” – light social chat