On a recent vineyard tour via luxury liner bus, the world’s addiction to cell phones became acutely clear to me. The bus ride was designed as a scenery teaser on the way to the main event. We drove down verdant country roads through lush, dense foliage, with tree branches waving us through each new winding turn. But even as the driver proudly pointed out blooming hydrangea and quaint, local landmarks, most of my fellow passengers seemed to prefer Googling, returning text messages or snapping photos, only looking away from their screens in micro increments. It was as if observing nature was an obligation, something socially required to appear a proper human being.

Meanwhile, my eyes were glued to the outside world. I spotted all kinds of little wonders; a rogue pink leaf in a tree full of green, a swooping cardinal collecting twigs and even a bunny hopping over rocks to its next destination. I’d really like to think this is because I’m exceedingly evolved but honestly, it’s because I get nauseous looking at my phone in a moving vehicle. I didn’t really have a choice. As much as I wanted to snap a photo or video of my surroundings and text it to a friend, I simply couldn’t. I had to be present. Alone with my own experience.

This all leads me to the conclusion that as a society we are increasingly detached from the present. Shrewd editors of our time and attention span. Even in our leisure time. There is nary a microsecond allocated for gazing, daydreaming or uninterrupted social engagement. Perhaps, if we allocate just an hour a day away from electronics we will engage more deeply with our family and natural surroundings? It’s a lofty goal, but one worth a try.

For any such attempt in the cruel summer heat of July, it’s crucial to have a bevy of non-tech indoor leisure games ready. So, I’ve compiled a list of several hyper engaging ‘parlor games’ to help keep us all from scrolling. Even if it’s just for an hour, it’s worth a shot.

Grown Up Games:

Poker Set, Adler’s

Card/Dice Game Set, Judy at the Rink

Mah Jong Set, Moda Operandi

Truth or Drink, Bibelot Bagatelle

Business Walrus, Cards Against Humanity

Family/Kids:

Family Truth or Dare, Phina

Makin’ Groceries, Home Malone

Tumble Tower Game, Saks Fifth Avenue

Backgammon Set, Saks Fifth Avenue

Quizoo Roulette, Bibelot Bagatelle