Do you remember getting your first phone? How old were you? What was the first thing you remember doing with it? Now for another question: Have you had a phone since then? If you’re like most people then your answer will be yes, you’ve rarely been without a phone since you first had one – just like me.

System Overload

Computers use binary code to move information, all 0’s and 1’s. Imagine a world where human beings received information from their devices as binary as well! Every text message, every web browse, every social media feed – a sequence of 1’s and 0’s. Think of how much you normally look at a screen throughout your day – how much would you have to process in a 24-hour period? It’s likely we’d overload and fast!

As helpful and useful as ALL of my devices are, I need a break from them sometimes – as do you! We can feel like we’re constantly being pulled in every direction just by staying ‘connected’ to everything and everyone. No one would have to call or text, just the fact that it’s on leads me to feel in sync. It’s hard to have your own personal ‘quiet time’ when it seems like your time belongs to everything and everyone else. Start reclaiming your mind and your time by unplugging every once in a while.

100% Human

A camera can capture a view of nature, but it’ll never be able to truly enjoy it’s beauty. A microphone and speaker can receive and magnify sound, but it’ll never be able to take in the wonder of a beautiful voice. What a privilege we have to be able to enjoy, relax, and take in the beauty of the many elements around us. Not only do we get to see them and enjoy them, but that enjoyment recharges us in a way that constat screen time can’t. Here are a few tips to help you unplug so you can find and enjoy your quiet place.

1. Set a time to go ‘tech free’ every evening (ex. from 6-7pm; dinner time)
2. Don’t just put your phone/tablet on silent or do not disturb, turn it all the way off
3. Find apps to help manage or control your screen time
4. Have a section of your home made especially for relaxing and unwinding without the help of technology

So, for your own wellness’ sake, take some time this week and TURN OFF your devices for a short while. Just 30 minutes to an hour of ‘radio silence’ can help you ease your body and mind. It’s time to disconnect from tech so you can reconnect to you!