Disconnect to Reconnect Week 2

“When it comes to social media, there are just times I turn off the world. Sometimes you must give yourself space to be quiet, which means you’ve got to set those phones down.”

-Michelle Obama

How do you give yourself a “break” from work, boredom, your family, or whatever you are doing? Is it then time to check social media, watch endless reels, or generally spend time with your friend, your phone. Americans check their phones between 186 and 352 times a day which is every 5 minutes. Research shows that this does not give our brain a break but only makes us more distracted.  If this sounds like it might be your phone habit, why not keep track this week. Assess your status and level of addiction.

Michelle Obama’s quote suggests we follow her lead- just shut off the world.  It will still be there. Even short breaks of two minutes for reflection, daydreaming, or gratitude can help you slow down.  

While "Doing" is the realm of the mind and activity, "Being" is the inner side of life. To live fully, one must allow themselves to just be. This may sound impossible for some, but if you consider that it is time spent with the most important person in your life, you, it will be a wise decision. Start small, when that urge comes to check your phone, replace it with I’m connecting with myself. For some you may need to do something physical at first, such as take a short walk, or stretch for two minutes. For others it will be a time to focus on your breath and get in a short meditation. You can begin with just one hour in the morning and another in the evening.  Disconnect to reconnect to yourself.