How to holistically heal...with digital minimalism

What will you do with your free time?

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In this edition…

1. Healing: With digital minimalism

2. Reverence: Steps to embrace digital minimalism

3. Exploring: What will you do with your free time?

Healing encompasses a comprehensive holistic approach, acknowledging the intricate web of factors that shape our well-being: our health, inheritance & genetics, environment, relationships, creativity, spirituality & self-care. Reverence is the deep respect & attention to the things that truly impact healing. Exploring is the journey into the deeper work, meeting the parts, wounds & survival strategies that keep us small, stuck & suffering with persistent symptoms & feelings.

Pic: When was the last time you found a quiet place in nature to read?

1. Healing: How to holistically heal...with digital minimalism

The Digital Dilemma

In our modern world, digital technology has woven itself into nearly every aspect of our daily lives. It offers unparalleled convenience, instant connectivity, and access to an endless stream of information. Yet, as we immerse ourselves deeper into this digital realm, a paradox emerges: while these tools are designed to enhance our lives, they often leave us feeling more stressed, anxious, and fragmented.

This phenomenon, as described by Cal Newport in his book Digital Minimalism, arises from our incessant engagement with screens and devices. Newport argues that the barrage of notifications, social media, and digital distractions fractures our attention, leaving us less capable of deep thinking and meaningful connection. We find ourselves constantly “plugged in,” yet more disconnected from ourselves and our surroundings than ever before.

Similarly, Johan Hari, in his work Stolen Focus, delves into the idea that our attention is under siege, not just from the allure of digital distractions, but from the very design of these platforms. They are crafted to keep us hooked, pulling us away from the ability to focus deeply, which is essential for both personal fulfillment and societal progress.

It’s here that the concept of digital minimalism becomes crucial. Digital minimalism is not about rejecting technology outright; rather, it is a philosophy that encourages us to reclaim our autonomy over how we engage with digital tools. Newport describes digital minimalism as a way to use technology in a more deliberate and focused manner, reducing the noise and distractions to make room for what truly matters. It is about intentionality—curating our digital lives to align with our values and priorities, rather than being at the mercy of endless apps, notifications, and digital noise.

This mindful approach to technology invites us to reconsider our relationship with the digital world. It encourages us to ask ourselves: Are our digital habits serving us, or are we serving them? By embracing digital minimalism, we open the door to greater peace, clarity, and a more centred existence.