Tricia Burke, Ph.D., Dept. of Communication Studies
We are more connected to and reliant upon our devices than ever. We use our phones to check our work emails and to communicate with our friends and family; this means we often see work emails at home and get personal texts at work. The combination of these blurred boundaries and the strong pull of our addictive devices can negatively impact our mental health and can even contribute to workplace stress and burnout. This is why it is important for all of us to find ways to unplug and reset.
For some of us, leaving our devices behind feels impossible. The key is finding an approach that works for you. Some people may take an hour once a week, others may take an hour each day, and others may take a full 24-hour day or more. The important thing is that each of us finds a way to disconnect from our devices and to fill our time with activities that promote reflection, connection, and well-being.
Last week, I left my phone behind when I went for a walk with my friend. Four steps in, I felt like I had left a limb behind, but four miles later, I felt refreshed. We were fully engaged in our conversation and when we went separate ways at the end, I slowed my pace to admire the trees and cacti in bloom around my neighborhood. Next time you decide to attend a WellCats class or walk to a bench and meditate, we encourage you to leave your devices, and hopefully your stress, behind.
