Screen Time

I recently experienced a profound realization around my use of screens (emails, social media, streaming platforms, etc.) and my nervous system.

Earlier in the spring I felt a strong calling to engage in a silent meditation retreat. Though I had been longing for this experience for years, the urgency I now felt was new. I researched available retreats online and then one offer came into my inbox from Jeff Carreira, a mediation teacher I had worked with nearly 10 years ago. For an affordable price, he offered to lead a 4-day virtual silent retreat.

With my husband’s support I created a retreat environment in my own home that would support my meditation practice during these 4 days. I stayed off of all screens (with the notably exception of the retreat’s zoom room!), and stimuli including music and tv, and maintained silence throughout the days. I engaged in sitting meditation for 7 hours each of the 4 days.

On the evening of the third day, while I was rubbing my dog’s belly, lying next to her on the floor, I realized I felt a calm that felt new and profound. I realized that prior to that moment I had been living with a constant low-grade stress simply humming away in the background of my life. At that moment I realized the power I had given away to screens. I was ready to reclaim this power, this agency in my life.

Upon reentry into the speaking world, I experienced a kind of jet lag. I felt I had been able to slow down so much that being thrust back in the world of technology was especially jarring. I vowed to keep my screentime in check, and I am happy to say I have been.

I used to reach for my phone to check emails and social media throughout the day. Now, when I feel that compulsion I pause, I breathe, and I ask:

Do I really need to check this?

I don’t work for an organ transplant agency, I don’t have a loved one in hospice, I don’t need to check my phone more than one to three times a day. Typically I will check my phone 1-2 per day. Somedays I can leave my phone at home for the whole day. I experience a freedom and release when I do.

Since this retreat in early June, I have also been sitting in mediation for at least an hour each day. This practice has the extra benefit of slowing my perception of time, so my days feel longer. I am doing more with less energy spent. I feel greater peace and serenity. I am grateful!

If you are interested in learning more about mindfulness and technology, I recommend these talks as a starting place: https://tricycle.org/dharmatalks/mindfulness-for-social-media-addiction

Please be in touch with me about your experience and what kind of support you are seeking. I am here to serve you on your life’s path of growth and awakening.