Last week was the first time I was off the grid for an extended period of time. For years. I was no longer consumed with looking at my phone during dinner when there were lulls in conversation, could embrace silence among my company, and took in the beauty that surrounded me. There were no distractions, nothing competing for my attention. I went to bed when it was dark and woke up with the sun. At first it seemed odd, as if I was missing out. What would be on my phone when I returned to service? I had things to do, automated items to sync up. What would my engagement look like after time away? Initially it was hard, but ultimately It was refreshing and much needed.
I have heard it said that in this age one of the greatest luxuries is the time we spend offline. This weekend, what would your hours look like if they were less consumed with phones, our Instagram feeds, or our need to document every moment for the world, rather than capturing them as snapshots within our memory and sharing it with our loved ones?
Here’s a challenge: take a day where you shut off your phone. That’s right shut it off. The thing you look at when you first wake up, as you fall asleep, and let’s be real, sometime when you use restroom. What would loving look like, being present with one another, and creating without comparison be like without constant distraction? I came across an article yesterday that stated that the goldfish has an attention span of 9 seconds. The human in 2015 has an attention span of 8.15. I wonder if the constant need to check everything has contributed to our lack of focus. There’s no time like the present to reverse this trend. Let’s go unplugged, shall we?
Here are a few things I’m planning on doing when I go unplugged:
Practice hand lettering.
This has been something on the to-do list all week and I haven’t gotten around to it. I’m excited to practice hand lettering a bit more, developing a stronger sense of style, and smoothing out curves as I freehand compositions. I’ve been receiving emails from Sean Wes and have been thoroughly impressed. You can access all of his tutorials here.
Show a bit of kindness to our neighbors.
Over the past few weeks, our neighbors have shown us tremendous kindness. With crossing the street and offering fresh organic fruits and vegetables on a bi-weekly basis, I’m thinking it’s time we reciprocate and build community among our neighbors. I have loads of almond flour to use up and am contemplating making macaroons. I’ve never tried them, but love their light flavors, perfect for a summer treat and a small way to say “thank you.” Raspberry, chocolate, or lemon are sure to be delicious and melt in their mouths.
Get to planning a few parties.
We’re in the lull of summer and I’ve missed gatherings that have come with the fall season. I’m thinking on a few beautifully styled dinners around the table, featuring seasonal produce from the farmers market, and simple foraged greenery are in order. I’ve been finding that this summer has been focused on cultivating stronger female friendships and a girl’s night is in order. (Has anyone ever made paella over their firepit? If so, I’d love to hear from you! That’s my latest idea for summer outdoor cooking.)
Break out the paints.
It’s been a few months since I’ve done much creatively hands-on. One of my favorite mediums to use is paint and I’m excited to break out my brushes and acrylics, practicing some good color theory. I have one fresh canvas waiting for something incredible to go on it. Now, for the next question, to go abstract or pick a subject?
Find your wild.
I’ve learned for me that my heart is most at rest when I am in nature. I try to go to National Parks and recreation areas often. Here I find adventures, get in some great workouts, and take in all the sights. Mountains are by far one of my favorite things and I love exploring the ones in my own backyard. I know for many this isn’t something you can do. You can find a park, a creek, a secret spot along the river. Pack a blanket, take a nap, read a good book, or sketch the scene in front of you. Find yourself a good adventure and be refreshed.
What are you up to this weekend? Ready to go unplugged? Let’s do this!!