Monday, November 5, 2012

my break from facebook




Several months ago I read a blog post by Jessica Ainscough titled "The Reason I'm Taking A Blog Savasana." Her blog was the catalyst for the month I took off from practicing my cello.  It was not a total break from the instrument, as I still played my cello when teaching, but it was a super healthy step for my art. During this time I also began a two month long detox.  As the weeks went by and my body continued to heal, some things became clearer; I had really missed practicing my cello.

Since I was not practicing, I spent a lot of time researching as much as I could about a myriad of health related topics/issues and enjoyed the extra time getting creative in the kitchen.  Many of the articles I read and documentaries I watched came from posts and pages I subscribe to on facebook.  I learned so much in this time, but I also overstimulated my mind in the process.  At one of my appointments my holistic doc told me, "Karen, you are like a finely-tuned instrument and super refined, but you need to get out of your head and more into your body."  Heeding my doc's advice, I decided to take a break from facebook (which he approved) and my health related research.  It was a mere coincidence that a negative comment appeared on one of my posts alluding to the fact that I should "spend less time on fb," as the decision to take a break had already been made.  I chose not to respond to the comment, as I had better things to do with my time.

In the past 6 days away from facebook I have felt more calm and centered, and my relationship with yoga has become more meaningful. I have also had some wonderful moments in my cello practice sessions and had more time to work on several new blog posts.  Andrew and I have also had more time to spend together, which makes me very happy.

My life is pretty darn good and this break has helped me appreciate even more the unique opportunities each day has to offer.

I am planning to revisit facebook by the end of the week, but I will definitely be spending much less time there. Finding balance in my life can be a challenge at times, so I am trying to simplify and declutter my mind. After all, reading 5 different articles that essentially state the same facts is not the most productive use of my time. And my time is precious.

To my dear friends on facebook, I have missed our little exchanges and look forward to getting back in touch with all of you very soon...


2 comments:

  1. I LOVE taking breaks from Facebook and from blogging. I sometimes struggling with blogging and spending more time with my family. Today, however, I wrote a post on my phone as Sydney was running a fever and passed out on my lap. Those posts I don't feel guilty about, but the ones that pull me away from Greg and my girls do, so I decided to not pay attention to my blog because life and bettering the mental, emotional and physical health of my family is of utmost importance.

    I find that when I have physical symptoms, it's my body's way of telling me to slowdown and refocus. I now listen.

    I commend you on taking a much needed break! I miss you but know completely how great life is without social media.

    Much Love!
    Priscilla

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  2. Thanks Priscilla! It's nice to know I'm not the only one who struggles with balancing everything. I hope Sydney feels better soon, bless her little heart.

    Life has been great without the social media and I have felt much better, too. It's amazing what good comes from listening to your body. I can't wait to get back to your fabulous holiday recipe group! I have many new recipes to share, too! :)

    ♥♥♥
    +K

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