Gatekeeping

Last weekend’s social media and news timeout served me really well – I slept better than I have in weeks, if not months. Removing myself temporarily from platforms gave me time and mental energy to devote to other things and I started the week refreshed and well rested.

Since dipping back into the online cesspool, I’ve noticed a return of my insomnia. Last night I was awake for hours as my mind spiraled between the state of the country and world, the financial unknowns that will come with retirement, concern for the safety of my children and those I love, irrational fears relating to my house and the health of my dog.

Today, I’m exhausted all over again.

In an attempt to shift my own relationship with media, I’ve come up with some reminders to help myself navigate through a society that is constantly bombarding us with breaking news, hateful sound bites and unsubstantiated claims against others.

Maybe they’ll help you, too.

*Limit what you ingest. Stop randomly scrolling and clicking and take a break from all of the noise. Maybe, like me, you’ll step away from your device for a weekend or for the hours after dinner and before bedtime. Find what works for you.

*Use your phone to connect with a human. Phone a friend or family member and actually hear the voice of someone you love who loves you in return.

*Get outdoors. I’m a firm believer that fresh air can cure what ails us. Try it.

*Protect yourself and your energy. Refuse to engage with anyone wishing to debate you – especially when evidence (I like to call it facts) supports your position. You will never persuade someone to abandon their stance when actual documented events are rejected by those who instead choose willful, blind ignorance.

*Perform an act of kindness. Offer a cold drink to the delivery person, hold the door for the person behind you, ask if you can lend a hand when faced with someone struggling. Small things can have big impacts.

*Cultivate beauty. Weed the garden, create something, take a walk with your camera and capture the loveliness that resides in your neighborhood. Focus on the wonders of nature, instead of the ugliness of our world.

*Prepare a meal with the freshest and most local ingredients you can find. Sit at the table, alone or with companions, and savor what you have cooked.

*Organize something. Maybe it’s time to switch the seasons of your wardrobe or finally get those books or photos or documents in order. In a world that feels very out of control, getting your own personal space organized can feel very grounding.

I never imagined a time such as the one we’re all trying to survive. It’s really hard, but know that for you, I’m open and available. Even if you can’t find me online.