It’s common for people to share their dislike for technology as a badge of honor for their spiritual nature. For some, it’s closer to disdain (tee hee). Somewhere in the thinking, technology became the demon that destroys quality of life. But just because you’re spiritual, is that a reason to avoid technology? I could make the argument that it enhances life through self-awareness.
Another common issue we are all facing is elevated stress brought on by the conditions created by a worldwide pandemic. Depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, along with emotional and psychological disturbances, are big issues affecting our society today. All of which lead to a weakened immune system in the middle of inflammatory storms that some refer to as Covid Storms. I wonder which is the bigger epidemic – Covid or stress.
Social media is part of the evolution of technology and our culture. We can find joy and laughter in a cat video or extreme anger in a Facebook fight. It feels like time for an intervention, and technology could be part of the answer. Every experience is measurable, and we can use our resources to feel better instantly. Technology is unstoppable, which means we have to adapt to the present moment or become extinct as part of human evolution. Let’s use technology for a measurable experience through a whisper on the subject:
Technology is an integral part of the current human condition and will only become a larger component with time. Because it is an inescapable part of life, it is inherent upon each person to see the areas where it can provide enough benefit to increase the thrive factor. Practical applications can bring greater wellbeing if done mindfully.
Spiritual growth and development come with advanced levels of self-awareness through mindful living. Practicing mindfulness in relationships, health, spirituality, business, and daily routines depends on discipline. The same discipline can apply to the use of technology in ways that are mindful. Being aware of the effect an activity has on your mental, emotional, and physiological state of being allows for insights that lead to positive channeling of energy.
Schedule technology like you would time for sleeping, eating, and exercising. If you’re conscious of your time, you are managing your neural networks for improved function. Enriched performance in all areas of life will reflect the balanced approach to using technology. Identify stress-provoking activities in order to develop the discipline needed for mindful practices. Notice when turning to technology out of habit or to fill some other void before making determinations regarding unhealthy practices related to technology.
Embrace the benefit of technology and adapt to the mindful practices that enhance life. Use discipline and self-awareness to determine the most effective practice to evolve with the present moment in human development.
Bring joy, ease suffering and create beauty, then dance like you mean it!
Blessings, Russell
“You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete.”
Buckminster Fuller
