09/13/2022
The importance of unplugging is a culturally under-discussed topic. As is the case for most of the western world, where topics such as professions and ambitions almost always put topics like down-time and stay-cations on the back burner, we as a society donāt unplug enough! Whether itās from work, life responsibilities, family, or even friends, sometimes getting away from it all and having time to bask in the beauty and simplicity that is your solo self can be incredibly healing. Yes, we can love our jobs, we can love our families and friends, and we can love the lives that weāve created for ourselves that often rev up our internal combustions to the point where we think we may be going a bit crazy⦠but itās not just āokay" to prioritize your own zen moments where breath, calmness, and harmony are our primary companions. It's extremely healthy!
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Various studies have shown that taking time away from electronics and disconnecting from technology can do wonders for our interpersonal relationships and our overall ability to communicate effectively. Unplugging encourages us to connect with those around us in a more meaningful way, and that can hold true with just ourselves as well. Often, time away from screens, and away from the energetic vampires that have become most social media platforms, means a better quality of life in the interim. There are even studies that support the findings that decreased technology use can be linked to better mental health!
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When the world seems to overflow with ābreaking news,ā when stepping away from the office for more than 20 minutes seems to bring about something catastrophic, THATās your signal to plan some down time. Be in nature. Go for a long hike. Find solace in a yoga class. Experiment with a new lunch-time super-food. Listen to an old song that soaks you in nostalgia. Explore a new part of your neighborhood, or the next one over. Write stream of consciousness poetry, or try your hand at a haiku. Revisit a favorite book that always makes you feel good, or discover a new one! There are endless ways to reset and unplug. If you need some guidance, start with self-care. Whenās the last time you made some time for YOU?