This video by Prince Ea looks at how technology and social media have changed our human relationships. It invites us to be more aware of how we use our personal devices and to connect face-to-face with our loved ones and our community.
Disconnect to Reconnect
Sometimes disconnecting is what helps most. Many of us find it hard to put our devices down, and some people describe their social media use as an addiction. When we consciously disconnect from our devices for an extended period of time in a day, we can create space to reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones, and the natural world around us.
You can disconnect to reconnect through the simple practice of taking mindful breathing breaks. Anytime you notice that you have been scrolling for an extended period of time, you might put your phone aside, find a safe and comfortable space, let your eyes close, and tune into your breath for two to three minutes. At the end of these few minutes, you might set an intention to be more attentive to the world around you and more aware of the time you spend on your phone or other device.
How to Overcome Social Media Addiction
Changing a habit that feels like an addiction usually takes time and support, and if it is affecting your daily life, a mental health professional can help. This practice complements that care. A few simple steps you might explore to loosen your attachment to social media and related technology include:
- Be mindful of the time you spend on your personal device. You don’t need to judge or blame yourself; simply become more aware of your social media engagement.
- Turn off “push” notifications. Constant updates can keep pulling you back to your phone.
- Schedule “no-phone” time into your day. The first and last hours of the day can work well.
- Spend more time outdoors – phone turned off or tucked away at the bottom of your bag.
- Journal about your attachment to technology. Remaining compassionate and curious, reflect upon what draws you to your social devices to such a large degree.
- Set an intention to be more attuned to the world outside of your phone. You might create a special self-guided meditation for this, making a commitment to becoming more fully immersed in the real world.
