The world is moving fast, and with the entire globe at our fingertips, we have enough information to keep us occupied for a lifetime. As long as our devices are charged and we have an internet connection, we barely need to move—aside from eating or using the washroom. Our minds feel satisfied just by staying connected, requiring no physical activity at all. The evolutionary goal of conserving energy has worked its magic—we’ve succeeded by the standards of the animal kingdom. Game, set, match.
Yet, depression rates—particularly in the U.S.—have steadily increased over the past few decades, with a noticeable spike in recent years. Despite knowing more about mental health than ever before, we seem to suffer more. Perhaps this is due to improved diagnostic practices, or maybe we’re truly facing a mental health crisis. The constant barrage of information from our phones, paired with the pressure to stay busy and prove we’re “keeping up with the Joneses,” undoubtedly takes a toll. Our minds need rest—not just during sleep, but throughout the day. The brain can’t operate in overdrive all day and expect sleep to sort out the mess.
Throughout the day, take a moment to breathe. Step away from the screen. Inhale through your nose for a count of four, hold for four, then exhale through your mouth for another four. How did that feel? The power of just 12 seconds of focused breathing is incredible. Tuning into something as automatic as breathing can reset and re-energize the mind.
As Marc Champagne puts it in the book Personal Socrates:
“Sometimes we just need to reset our mind. Think of this reset in the same light as restarting your phone or computer after days, weeks, or months of operating. Too many programs and tasks are running at the same time. Hit restart and take on the challenge with a fresh mind.” (p.228)
Go for a walk without earbuds or find a quiet spot in your home—no phone, no distractions. Even better, go outside where you can breathe in the fresh air. Sit at a park and watch the trees sway. Head to the beach and gaze at the horizon. Watch birds flying through the sky. Take the time to truly observe the world around you. It’s the simple things in life that bring us back to the present. They remind us that life doesn’t need to be so complicated. But we have to choose to notice—and that begins with resetting the mind.
Make sure you have moments in your day to pause and breathe. You’ll feel much better when your head finally hits the pillow.
Take care.