My Apple Watch, Consciousness, and the Quest for Presence

I believe the answer lies in combining the principles of “A New Earth” with practical strategies for managing our digital consumption. It’s about consciously choosing how we engage with technology, rather than letting it control us. It’s about creating space for presence, for stillness, for connection.

Here are some tips for cultivating presence and creating your own JOMO journey:

• Set small, achievable goals: Start with small, manageable changes. Maybe it’s no phone at the dinner table, or turning off notifications for certain apps. Don’t try to overhaul your digital habits overnight. Small, consistent changes are more sustainable. For example, I’m committing to putting my phone down when we sit down to watch TV at night. I’m notorious for having my phone right next to me and missing what’s happening on the show as soon as the phone lights up! 🙈

• Create phone-free zones: Designate certain areas of your home, like the bedroom, as tech-free zones. This creates physical boundaries between you and your devices, making it easier to disconnect. My personal phone-free zones are the garden and my bedroom.

• Schedule digital downtime: Set aside specific times each day to disconnect completely. This could be an hour in the evening, or a few hours on the weekend. Schedule it like any other important appointment and stick to it. I have a new rule of not picking up my phone until 8 am each day and putting it down by 8 pm.

• Be mindful of your scrolling: Pay attention to how you feel when you’re on your phone or computer. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, drained, or even addicted? If you notice negative emotions arising, it’s a sign to step away and engage in a more mindful activity.

Presence isn’t a switch you flip; it’s a muscle you build. It takes practice, patience, and consistency. Be kind to yourself as you navigate this process. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference. By combining the wisdom of “A New Earth” with practical strategies for managing your digital life, you can reclaim our presence, find more joy in the present moment, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life. It’s about our expanding our energy and escalating consciousness, one mindful moment at a time.