National Day of Unplugging

LIVING LIFE UNPLUGGED

Do you ever feel as if your phone or tablet is glued to your hand 24/7? Or that technology is invading your life...often as an unwanted guest?

I know I sometimes feel as if I need to take a break with my phone or tablet. Both are constantly by my side. And while I use them for many purposes, work included, I feel as though I need a breather from the constant distraction and stimulation of such devices.

Did you know that March 9th is the National Day of Unplugging? This day is a day to disconnect, and possibly reconnect with people and activities that might be otherwise discouraged by technology. One day of disconnecting may not be enough for most of us, but it's a starting spot for reflecting as to why a device doesn't always have to be so readily nearby.

IDEAS for UNPLUGGING

So, what can you do if you have a day unplugged? Here's a list of ideas to do with your time if you need inspiration:

*Build something new or fix something that's broken

*Plant a flower, start a garden, or put together a terrarium (these are SO cool) https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/make-a-terrarium/

*Go hiking, fishing, or exploring a trail. The Missouri Department of Conservation has a great Website that lists all of the beautiful places you can visit in our state: https://mdc.mo.gov/

*Visit your local library and pick up some books on your To Read List

*Play a board game or card game with friends

*Doodle, sketch, draw, or journal

*Write an old-fashioned letter AND actually mail it

*Learn or practice a new skill/sport: shoot some hoops, kick around a soccer ball, fly a kite

*Use a real camera and practice the art of taking nature photos (or pictures of friends and family)

*Take a nap, rest, relax, meditate

Whatever you decide to do, try unplugging every now and again. I know it's now a goal of mine as well.

"Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you." ~Anne Lamott

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