The Importance of a Good Digital Detox
One of my dearest friends came over for a porch visit last night. We shared freshly picked Japanese plums and a glass of wine as we caught up, she on my swing and me in a rocker, listening to the wind chimes and palms swishing in the breeze. She reminded me that we hadn’t seen each other since Mardi Gras, and so much had happened: overnight canoe camping, beach volleyball, trail biking, blues concerts at the square, and more.
I guess it is a lot, I said, but you know, I really need it all. The more responsibilities I have, the more fun activities I need. It seems counterintuitive, but if my days are filled with work, sometimes under pressure, then I need to not just rest, but to rejuvenate. With days that deplete my battery, I need to recharge it somehow. If I just rest and scroll on my phone or watch TV, I don’t get that feeling of rejuvenation.
Resting is good, but for me, it’s not enough to motivate and energize me to do more. I especially need to get away from all my digital devices. When I am alone on my phone or my computer, I get stuck in my own head. Sure, I may be learning something new, telling myself that I am “researching” but it doesn't create a sense of fulfillment or make me feel any better. In fact, it can actually cause more stress, feelings of unworthiness or FOMO. Ideally, I need to get my body outside and move. I need to feel alive in my own skin and celebrate life. I need to observe with awe the world around me in order to connect with it. I need to connect with the community and other living beings too.
My friend gets it. She’s the same way too, which is why we are such good friends. When a colleague mentions a binge worthy TV show, we smile and move on. When we say that we don't watch TV, it is not meant to be condescending, but simply stating a choice. If at a picnic, someone tells me, “Wow, you‘ve got to try the BBQ pulled pork sliders!” I can reply, “Looks delish! I don’t eat meat, and bon appetit!”
How do you choose to recharge your battery and rejuvenate your spirit? What activities make you feel alive, connected and excited about life? You get to choose!