Disconnect to Reconnect

Lately, I’ve been trying to be more intentional about how I used my devices especially during times where I normally pull my phone out automatically – like while waiting for appointments. This past week, I had a lot of opportunities to practice and while I wasn’t perfect, I did spend a lot of time waiting sans phone.

That phone-free time gave me the opportunity to look around and just take in the world around me. While others were on their phones, I got to watch the clouds go by and spent some time imagining what they looked like, felt a sense of calm and relaxation as I was able to take some deep breaths and I even jotted some notes down for a future blog post.

This all may seem boring to some but it was juicy and fun for me. It made me feel alive. Really alive. And that’s why I disconnect from my devices. To reconnect with myself, other humans and the world around me.

I mean, think about what you might be missing out on when you are present with what’s happening on your device instead of being present in your life? Possibly: 

• Deeper connection with yourself and others
• Joy and wonder from engaging with world around you
• Clarity of thought and new ideas
• Greater sense of calm

This is something that I’m constantly reminded of when I go hiking – the joy at being fully present with what I’m doing. I want to experience EVERYTHING the forest has to offer. I’m constantly amazed at what I see, hear and feel when I hit the trail…even if it’s the same trail. Why? I look around. I walk in silence. I pause throughout my time to just take it all in. It’s when I feel most alive – when I’m in the forest. Mostly because I’m present in the moment. Taking everything in with as many senses as I can.

That’s how I was able to get the picture above. I was hiking the day after a rainstorm and as I was gazing around, I saw a raindrop on a branch. As I got closer I noticed that there was a reflection in it….of the trees around me. How cool is that? It was a reminder that the real magic in this world exists in the present moment.

So, that’s why I’m continuing to be intentional about my tech-use. I want that level of presence in my every day life. I know I won’t be perfect at it but hey…presence is a practice…and I intend to continue practicing it. So I can deepen my connections with myself, my fellow humans and the world around me.

How about you? What will you do to set down your devices and be more present in your life?