This week, I posted a 'reel' about 'digital distraction' and it's got me thinking about just how easy it is to become 'addicted', in a strangely compelling and bizarre way, to our screens. It seemed to hit a nerve so I thought I'd expand a bit and share with you.
I find I now have to make a concerted effort to identify the fine line between when it is a useful, constructive, creative, informative and positive aspect of modern life to when it will suddenly turn into the opposite and begin to undermine our grounding connection with Nature and the real 'reality'.
I invite you, if you have found your way to this blog, to objectively look at YOUR use of the digital world. No judgement, just an authentic assessment of how close you are to the 'line'.
In the glow of screens, our lives entwined,
Digital realms where thoughts unwind,
Yet amidst the bytes and code we chase,
A longing stirs for a quieter space.
In pixels bright, we find our day,
Lost in timelines, swept away,
Notifications hum and beckon near,
Drawing us deeper, year after year.
But in the silence of unplugged hours,
Where nature's symphony softly flowers,
There lies a peace we used to know,
Before the constant digital flow.
Disconnect, unplug, let the mind roam free,
Beyond the grasp of technology's plea,
To rediscover what truly matters most,
In the world where our spirits can truly boast.
Eyes lift from screens to skies above,
Where stars still shine with timeless love,
And in the quiet, our souls renew,
As we embrace what is real and true.
So take a break, breathe the fresh air,
Feel the earth beneath, without a care,
For in the beauty of the offline retreat,
We find ourselves, whole and complete.
While technology offers incredible benefits, it's essential to be discerning with our screen use and recognise the profound advantages of taking breaks to reconnect with nature.
The Digital Dilemma
Excessive screen time is linked to a host of physical and mental health issues. Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to eye strain, headaches, postural problems and disrupted sleep patterns due to blue light emissions.
The constant bombardment of notifications and information overload can increase stress and anxiety levels. Social media, in particular, has been shown to affect self-esteem and contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression. Is it creating a fear-based background for some?
But, what is 'excessive' - it will be different for each of us, but you can explore your personal 'line' -where it shifts from being a positive force to a negative force by:
Common-sense
Observe the messages your body sends you - it might simply be that you 'think' about it, that it 'springs to mind'
Dowse or energy test
The Power of Discernment
Being mindful and selective about screen use is crucial for maintaining a healthy balance. Why would you do this? well the benefits can include:
Improved Mental Health: Limiting screen time reduces exposure to negative online content and decreases the risk of anxiety and depression. It allows for more meaningful real-life interactions, enhancing emotional well-being.
Enhanced Focus and Productivity: Reducing digital distractions helps improve concentration and efficiency. Setting boundaries on screen use, such as designated "no screen" times, can lead to better work-life balance and increased productivity.
Better Sleep Quality: Avoiding screens before bedtime promotes healthier sleep patterns. The reduction of blue light exposure helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to more restful and rejuvenating sleep. This is something I've been experimenting with and I try not to expose myself to any screen after 9pm and sleep NOT surrounded by screens or electrical equipment and I DEFINITELY get a better quality of sleep.
Give your energies a fighting chance! With reduced exposure to the digital emissions, our energies can more easily recalibrate and re-balance. I'll write more, or perhaps do a short online class, on how we can support our energies survive in this new digitally 'toxic' world.
Reconnecting with Nature
Nature provides a sanctuary from the pace of digital life. Taking regular breaks to immerse ourselves in natural surroundings offers numerous benefits:
Stress Reduction: Spending time in nature significantly lowers cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature have a calming effect, reducing tension and promoting relaxation. One thing (and I've written about it before) is I expose myself to natural light - ideally sitting in the garden - within the first 20 minutes of waking up. This is said to help regulate cortisol levels and that, along with the simplicity and calmness of sitting in light, and Nature if possible, sets the energy for the day. If you live in an urban area and don't have the luxury of a garden, open a window and look out at the sky as you sip your morning 'cuppa'.
Enhanced Physical Health: Outdoor activities like walking, hiking, or simply spending time in green spaces boost physical fitness and overall health. Exposure to sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function.
Improved Mental Clarity: Nature has a restorative effect on the mind. It enhances cognitive function, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The tranquillity of natural environments allows for introspection and mental rejuvenation.
Finding Balance
Stepping off the digital treadmill and achieving a healthy balance between digital screen use and Nature requires conscious effort and intentional choices.
It's a focus of mine at the moment and here are some tips that I hope will 'entice' you to do the same.
It's not difficult, the first step is really appreciating and being aware that effort and 'wise' choices are necessary .... it's in your hands ....
Set Boundaries: Establish specific times for screen use and stick to them. I'm TRYING, and I stress the word 'trying', to be screen free after 9pm and over the weekends. I do exchange What's App calls/messages with family and friends during that time, but nothing else - no disappearing down any digital rabbit holes. Designate tech-free zones in your home, mine is my bedroom
Schedule Nature Breaks: Incorporate nature walks or outdoor exercise into your daily routine. I'm lucky that I have my dogs - so walkies is easy.
Be mindful: Be present in the moment, whether you're using digital devices or enjoying nature. Stay aware of your screen habits and their impact on your well-being. Adjust accordingly so your energies can dance with technology in a 'graceful fashion'.
Limit Social Media: Reduce time spent on social media platforms. Use them intentionally for connection and inspiration, rather than mindless scrolling and disappearing down aforesaid digital rabbit holes. I freely put my hand up .... I've done that!
In conclusion, being discerning with digital screen use and taking breaks to reconnect with Nature - effectively plugging into the positivity of Nature and not the fear-based vibe of some platforms - are essential steps toward a healthier, more balanced life.
It's not easy to be the one that bucks the trend, but it is worthwhile and wise
to consider this aspect of life. It's not going away.
OK, will get of my soapbox now .... if you've made it to the end of this blog, I really hope I've inspired you to at least think about your
personal use of this technology.
xxxx Maddie xxx
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