Here’s your weekly curiosity experiment:
In my latest blog post, I propose some remedies for the common complaint that “technology” (i.e. screen-based devices and the internet) is inherently distracting, overwhelming, and/or draining. One simple thing I’ve been playing with is embodied computing: that is, checking in regularly with how my body feels while I’m performing tasks on my various computerish devices (smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.). I find it helps me pay better attention to how long I’ve been working at something; whether I’m hungry or thirsty or need to stretch and move my body; and whether I’m breathing properly (and getting enough oxygen to my brain).
Here are some inquiries to develop your embodied computing skills:
What does it feel like when you’re on your device?
What is the tension signature in your body when you’re using an app, playing a game, checking email, etc.? Can you relax that?
What does your mind feel like right now, reading this email?
Can you maintain deep, regular breathing while using your device?
For more on this topic, have a look at my full post, “What’s the ‘Tox’ in a Digital Detox?“