Katie Holmes practices digital minimalism to stay balanced—here’s how

Ah, balance: That one magical (yet weirdly elusive) life ingredient that everyone could use a bit more of. Perhaps you find some semblance of a spiritual equilibrium through an indulgent bath, a walking meditation, or (yum) a chocolate yoga class. As for Katie Holmes? She reportedly opts for digital minimalism.

Holmes recently shared with Women’s Health that you won’t find her anywhere near a selfie stick. And that’s not the only way the actress tends toward the analog life; she prefers the company of an OG paperback book to that of a tablet e-reader any day. “I feel closer to an author when I’m holding a book,” said Holmes, who said she’s currently reading Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions.

“I feel closer to an author when I’m holding a book.” —Katie Holmes

As for her other tech-free rituals, Holmes admitted that she loves to spend free time drinking in culture by perusing museums or attending the theater. But one of her favorite balancing rituals happens right at home with some Joanna Gaines–esque redecorating vibes: “I just need to repaint a room over and over again,” she said. At the moment, her space boasts light blue and cream hues and oodles freshly cut flowers. Umm, too bad this star isn’t looking for a roommate.

Ready to give this digital detox thing a shot? Here’s why taking the plunge might actually make you happier and benefit your relationship.