These Google Trends show people really want to touch grass
Google Blog 2026-07-28 13:00:00
Context: People are increasingly seeking to unplug from digital life and reconnect with the physical world, as evidenced by Google Search data showing a growing interest in outdoor activities, social hobbies, and local community engagement. This trend is reflected in searches for activities like running, tennis, and mahjong, as well as hobbies like knitting and needlepoint. The desire to "touch grass" - a phrase meaning to intentionally take time to reconnect with the physical world - has become a breakout search term.
Key Facts
- Searches for "how to digital detox" have increased by 110% since the beginning of the year, indicating a growing desire to unplug and disconnect from digital life.
- Searches for "how to touch grass" have become a breakout search term over the past month, with related searches for "meaning of touch grass" increasing by 90% this year.
- Searches for "run club" and "how to start running" reached all-time high search interest in 2026, with related searches for "how to find local run clubs" and "how to make friends at run club" also trending.
- Searches for "mahjong for beginners" increased by 230% over the past year, with searches for "mahjong lessons near me" doubling since the start of 2026.
- Searches for "floral arranging classes near me" have increased by 850% in the past month, reflecting a growing interest in hands-on hobbies and creative activities.