If you are always connected, "always on" and reachable via your electronic devices, here's my tip:
Fast from all your devices for a day and spend more face-time with friends.
Many of you fast from certain foods (or all food) for religious or health purposes, and these fasts often yield positive benefits.
Here are some benefits of fasting from mobile devices and computers.
- You'll free up time for nature and people. Take a hike in the woods. Work in the garden. Spend an hour or two with a good friend you rarely see and catch up with each other's lives. Enjoy a live performance. Read a non-digital paper book with two covers.
- You'll learn how dependent you've become on the digital world. (If "totally dependent," you might be addicted.)
- Because you'll be less distracted, you'll be more aware of what you're feeling and sensing.
- You'll gain confidence in your ability to function and enjoy living in the world without always being "connected."
Personal account: From early June 1 until evening time June 3, I was traveling to or attending the annual energy psychology conference. I decided to leave my laptop at home and take a cellphone to be used only in case of a road emergency. While at the conference, I attended 4 or 5 sessions each day, browsed the exhibits and book store, talked with old friends and made new friends.
I found my time without electronic distractions to be wonderfully calming and satisfying.
Sometimes we are required to be reachable, e.g., health care professionals on call. But most of us are not absolutely required to be available 24/7.
Can't fast for one day? Then try at least a mini-fast, such as eliminating all electronic devices from your family's meal time. Or walk in the park with a friend without smartphones.
Try it: You may like it.