Connecting Is Critical; Disconnecting Is, Too
“Understanding begins with all of us looking inward, reflecting on our own attitudes, and of course, having difficult conversations with family and friends.”
That quote comes from the introduction to this antiracist reading list, and it’s a great lead-in to our topic this week on the importance of disconnecting (looking inward to reconnect with ourselves), and then reconnecting with others.
Connecting with others now is more critical than ever. Coming together, listening, and educating ourselves on the true oppression of people of color is one way to make a difference. But we also need to connect deep within ourselves to understand our own conscious and unconscious biases. I don’t have all of this figured out yet, but I aspire to do more and to be better. I know I have work to do.
And though it may seem contradictory, one way to help us connect better with others is to disconnect, at least for a short time. Check out what this blog has to say about disconnecting to reconnect: “When you unplug from technology and start to reconnect with yourself and those around you, you feel connected in a more authentic way.”
Here are some ideas that might help you disconnect:
Start your day by NOT checking your phone. Enjoy your morning routine in a quiet and peaceful way, and it’s amazing how your brain will respond.
Commit to turning off your phone (or not checking it) two hours before you go to bed. This will help your brain settle down and relax.
Find an app that helps you set time limits on your phone or computer. There are lots of apps like that out there.
Spend more time on the things that matter to you. Keep a list handy of how you spend your time throughout the week. You might be in for a surprise!
Read, keep a journal, or devote time to a hobby.
Get outside! It’s amazing how every one of your senses is called into being fully present when you step into the great outdoors.
Increase your physical activity level. I don’t mean running a marathon tomorrow. Just set a goal to add a few steps to your daily average.
And then, after you’ve disconnected for a time, go out there and reconnect with others. Wave to your neighbors or the mail delivery person. Greet a stranger with a nod or a smile. (Have you ever noticed how a smile can shine through a mask?) Make a new friend while you’re on the phone with customer service or in line at the grocery store. Pick someone you volunteer or work with, and get to know them better. Reconnect with friends and family far and wide. Pick up the phone, or better yet, write a letter to see how they’re coping.
Connecting is good for your physical and mental health, and it will be good for them, too!
Caring together,
Kristi