Social Media Free Sabbath

Yesterday I did something that NEVER happens.  I left my phone on my nightstand and didn't look at it all day.  It wasn't really a conscious choice I made at the beginning but then once I realized later on during the day that I hadn't looked at my phone all day I decided to keep it going.

Sometimes our soul needs respite and same with our minds. Social media and I have a love / hate relationship.  I love connecting with friends via this technology and even meeting new people I would never have the chance to meet in real life via instagram or this blog.  Yet, at the same time it feels like such a chore.  Hence the love / hate.

When I put the phone down and told myself I didn't actually have to browse through all my social media channels just to see if I missed something I was more productive, present, and able to actually rest.  We went to church in the morning.  Then over brunch Mike and I had a wonderful conversation about the homily and what we learned.  We really delved deep and shared our hearts.  I realized that when I am constantly checking my phone or thinking about checking my phone I am not fully listening or engaged.  I am there but my mind seems to do thirty things at once and social media influences that.

It was very nice to really spend the rest of my day being productive and reflective of what I learned that morning in church.  I got some good quality time with my bible and journal, thus fueling my heart and promoting a restful sabbath.

I don't know if this is something I will make a habit.  It seemed that when I most needed it this little social media break happened for me.  I am so grateful for the simple moments that I gained by losing / leaving my phone away from me for the day.

What do you accomplish or learn by going social media free?