EXCLUSIVENew York hotel reveals HUGE surge in the number of guests ditching their PHONES during their stays - as expert details the fascinating reasons why so many people want to get rid of their devices

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Some people say cell phones have become an extension of our minds and bodies - so could you ditch yours in the name of a proper vacation?

One hotel in the Catskills, New York, has reported that 80 per cent of guests have taken up a challenge to hand in their phones and take part in a digital detox during their stay.

The Urban Cowboy Lodge, which has somewhat of an adult summer camp feel to it with rustic-chic cabin structures and copper tubs installed in the rooms, launched an Unplug and Play package earlier this year, and its owners have been shocked by the uptake.

Lyon Porter, who is the co-founder of the 26-room Urban Cowboy, which also has a location in Tennessee and one set to open in Colorado, told DailyMail.com: 'The response to Urban Cowboy Lodge's digital detox package has been incredible! 

'We were hoping it would do well, but we never expected so many visitors would be open to giving up their phones for an entire weekend.'

The Urban Cowboy Lodge launched an Unplug and Play package earlier this year, and its owners have been shocked by the uptake

To investigate the draw of a no-phone vacation, I checked in for an Unplug and Play vacation at the Urban Cowboy Lodge and the moment I handed my phone in, I felt like a weight had been lifted. 

No one could contact me for the weekend, there would be no emails to check and no social media content to scroll through and feed my anxieties. 

At Urban Cowboy's tucked away Catskill location, there is no cell phone service on the 68-acre property, but the rooms and main building have WiFi. 

All guests who hand their phones in are given a Polaroid instant camera and some boxes of film instead - and I enjoyed this novel approach to documenting the weekend break. 

My partner chose to keep his phone but if, like us, you have hired a car for the weekend, navigating can prove difficult without a device if your vehicle isn't kitted out with GPS. 

By the end of the weekend, the thought of picking up my phone again filled me with dread, and I joked to the receptionist that she could keep it. 

New York psychologist Anna Yusim has since told DailyMail.com that doing digital detoxes on a regular basis are very important for mental health.

She explained: 'Taking a break from our phones while on vacation can offer a myriad of psychological benefits. 

At Urban Cowboy's Catskill location, there is no cell phone service on the 68-acre property, but the rooms and main building have WiFi

'Research suggests that disconnecting from constant digital stimulation can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being. 

'To actively reduce phone usage, individuals can start by setting designated phone-free periods, engaging in activities that don't involve screens, practicing mindfulness to stay present in the moment, establishing tech-free zones in their living spaces, and gradually decreasing screen time to create healthier boundaries with technology. 

'By prioritizing real-life experiences over digital distractions, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of connection, relaxation, and fulfillment during their time off.'

Here, Anna reveals how phones can hinder time away.

1. No proper relaxation

Constant phone use on vacation can disrupt the relaxation process Anna says, by 'keeping our minds engaged with work emails, news updates, and social media notifications.' 

Touching on the negative consequence of this, she adds: 'This constant connectivity prevents our brains from fully unwinding and experiencing the rejuvenating effects of a true break.'

2. Less romance 

If you're looking for a little romance on your vacation, Anna advocates locking your phone away for periods of time. 

She explains: 'Excessive phone use during vacation can hinder our ability to connect with loved ones. 

'Instead of being present and engaging in meaningful interactions, we may find ourselves distracted by our devices, leading to feelings of disconnection and missed opportunities for bonding.'

New York psychologist Anna Yusim told DailyMail.com that doing digital detoxes on a regular basis are very important for mental health (stock image)

3. Sleep disruption

For better rest, Anna advises leaving your phone in another room during the night.

She says: 'The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with our natural sleep cycles, making it harder to relax and fall asleep. 

'Using phones before bed on vacation can disrupt the quality of our rest, leaving us feeling tired and less rejuvenated the next day.'

4. Reduced mindfulness

'Constant phone usage can detract from our ability to be present and mindful during vacation,' Anna warns. 

The psychologist, who is a keen traveler herself, adds: 'By constantly checking messages and notifications, we divert our attention away from the beauty of our surroundings and the experiences unfolding in the moment.'

5. Impact on mental health

Our devices can have a huge impact on our state of mind, Anna says, with scientific studies to prove the negative results. 

She reveals: 'Research has shown that excessive phone use, especially during vacation, is linked to increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. 

'By constantly engaging with our devices, we may miss out on opportunities for true relaxation and mental well-being.'

Rooms at Urban Cowboy Catskills start from $230 a night, with on-site facilities including a restaurant, movie room, and sauna.