Blog Post #3 - Emily Kogan
I believe that one crucial step toward reclaiming silence and meaning in our lives is to establish digital boundaries. I have looked into some articles, and I have found two that are particularly interesting on this topic.
Firstly, by setting designated times to engage with electronic devices, and silencing non-essential notifications, we can be more in-the-moment with the people we care about. Constant digital interruptions have been linked to increased stress and impaired concentration, often preventing individuals from reaching deep thought states (Gazzaley & Rosen, 2016). By creating intentional periods of “digital detox,” we can promote moments of mental stillness that enable reflection, reduce anxiety, and foster richer, more meaningful connections. For example, taking device-free mornings or tech-free evenings can restore control over our attention and allow space for personal insights to emerge without the relentless pull of notifications.
Additionally, mindful practices like meditation or journaling can provide a buffer against the constant digital noise, allowing for a grounded, self-aware perspective that counteracts digital distraction. Research has shown that mindfulness practices not only improve attentiveness, but also build resilience against the constant distraction of quick, shallow content (Williams & Penman, 2011). Activities emphasizing presence, such as face-to-face conversations or spending time outdoors, offer opportunities to reconnect with genuine experiences that digital interactions often dilute. Engaging intentionally in these mindful practices helps preserve our capacity for deep thought, authenticity, and connection in an otherwise media-focused landscape.
References:
1. Gazzaley, A., & Rosen, L. D. (2016). The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High-Tech World. MIT Press.
2. Williams, M., & Penman, D. (2011). Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World. Piatkus.
Hi Emily,
ReplyDeleteThe topic of digital boundaries is interesting to me, especially in today’s world, where it seems there are very few in place. As you mentioned in your post, the ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature helps silence the notifications, limit temptations, and facilitates being present in the moment. One digital detox method I try to implement regularly is a ‘digital declutter,’ so to speak. Every so often, maybe once or twice a month, I will declutter my phone by uninstalling apps, unfollowing accounts, deleting old messages, emails, and photos, and getting rid of any junk on my phone that clutters my life. I have found this particularly helpful, as it feels similar to cleaning my room but in a digital space. Do you implement any digital boundaries you shared, or have you tried any form of digital decluttering?
All the best,
Emma
Hi Emily,
ReplyDeleteDigital boundaries and the idea of digital detox really resonates with me because I'm always checking my notifications even if I'm not expecting anything specific. I find it hard to disconnect from my phone but implementing the do not disturb feature seems to help me forget about checking. Whether it be when I'm with my family, studying, or right before bed, dnd removing any audio or visual components seems to make me forget about anything happening on my phone and lets be more in touch with the present! Thanks for sharing!