Blog
Unplug and Recharge
In today's world it is very difficult to not be connected in some capacity 24 hours a day. With the Internet, TV, iPads, cell phones, Facebook and Twitter, and constant streaming in one form or another, we are connected at the touch of a button...or a screen! Does this help with productivity and efficiency? Sometimes, yes. Does this take us away from really living at times? Absolutely, yes. I honestly feel that before the Internet was as big as it is now, and even before cell phones were like mini computers, I was genuinely happier. I feel like I was positively more engaged in my life and more "present" in the moment. I felt things more. I was more aware. I was more alive. Again, not blaming everything on technology and the amazing things that are at our disposal, but I see a downside to always being connected. When people are able to reach you 24 hours a day, wherever you are, it is hard to escape and enjoy what you are doing. I love being able to text someone real quick, or check the news on my phone, or watch something on my iTouch, but it can take over your life. I do think that as a whole, we need to be more aware of how often we are plugged in and make conscious choices to unplug on a regular basis. I think it is good for your soul. I think it is crucial for your happiness. Do you ever feel your stress rising because of the constant contact? Do you find yourself wasting a lot of time navigating the web or your phone or your computer? This week my suggestion would be to make small changes in how much time you spend plugged in.
1. Create a ritual
The only way to break the habit of being plugged in is to create a daily ritual of stepping away. Pick a time everyday to put your phone away, turn off your computer, step away from the TV, or simply go gadget-free. This doesn't have to be a lengthy amount of time. Even just 15 minutes to begin with is a great goal. Start a ritual with your family that there are no cell phones allowed during meal times.
2. Use that time wisely
During your unplugged time try clearing your mind. This period when you're not constantly being bombarded with technology is the perfect time to meditate or do some deeper thinking. Take this small window of time every day to let your mind rest and expand. Try this daily for one week and see how you feel.
3. Savor this time
Over time my hope is that you would savor and look forward to this unplugged time in your life. The Sabbath is a great example of this. Every week for a specific period of time, you are meant to do nothing, to simply rest and rejuvenate. Who doesn't need this? Creating mini rituals every day to let your mind, physical body, and spirit relax away from the outside world is very important to your overall health.
MONDAY DEAL OF THE DAY
Similar to Groupon or Daily Deals, I will be offering a Monday deal of the week. Today's deal is that you can receive 2 e-books for the price of 1. Click here to review the book choices. (Unstoppable Confidence, Give yourself a Life Makeover and more)
Leslie Gail is a life strategist for moms, an author, and Mom TV web show host. Read more about her here.
- Log in to add favorite
- Share
About the Author
Leslie Gail is a lifestyle expert, health coach, best-selling Author, MomTV web show host and radio host. Her most valuable job however is being a mom to two wonderful children. She is a seasoned life coach with a wealth of experience, and has helped countless people transform their lives in positive ways. She is passionate about offering simple and practical advice that moms can relate to and connect with. She can be seen every Tuesday LIVE on her MomTV webshow, where she chats with moms from all over the country. You can visit her website at www.newlifefocus.com and www.lightenupcoach.com for free advice and resources. She also contributes material to Her Channel at www.herchannel.com/newlifefocus She currently lives in Denver with her husband and two children.
