I screen, you screen, we ALL screen, to rely on screens!
Jeez, those screens! Television screen, computer screen, iPad/nook/kindle screen, phone screen—so many many screens. Even writing the word 'screen' that many times on a screen makes my brain cross into thinking I spelled it wrong.
Most of us work on those screens all day only to come home and spend more time on screens at night. Email, online shopping, blogging, gaming, tv-ing, and of course Facebooking, are just a few examples of how these screens can sneak into our worlds and suck up our time.
The thing about screens is that they are not alive. They don’t have prana. They make us feel tired rather than energized. We might even feel like we have 'no time' because time seems to vanish into the abyss of the screen, and before we know it, it’s way past bedtime.
Friends, screens are vata-increasing. They can cause sleep problems, depression, and anxiety, and evoke a sense of loneliness and low self-worth. And, of course, cause eye problems (pitta).
We need a break from these things, so unplug each night at least an hour before bedtime.
Screens have their purpose, for sure! But they don’t need to trump exercise, healthy eating, healthy sleep, fun hobbies, the outdoors, and time with family. Those are LIFE!
Screens are not. So, while we rely on screens to get our work done, and sometimes it’s fun to watch a good tv show, I encourage you to put down the screen once in a while.
I challenge you to try three evenings in a row with no screens. And I want your feedback!
Most times we are just zoning out–it’s not like we really care what’s on the screen anyway. So, think of all the other things you can do.
Some ideas: Play music, watch a fireplace, practice yoga, write in your journal about the day (maybe you’re mad at MonicaB for taking away your screens), read a magazine or a book, take a bath, go for a walk, swap massages with your mate, search for new recipes, make dinner, prepare lunch for tomorrow, send a card to your grandma, call a friend, snuggle with your dog or cat, massage your tootsies.
Look at that! Once the screens are out of the way, there are so many other things you can do to fuel your soul.
Let me know when you’re all fueled up, prana-filled, and feeling fresh as the morning dew. Promise!
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