Retreat to Low Tech

As I write this, my husband and I are both experiencing a low level of technology. We are both “off the grid” as per the popular phrase to describe being off the internet and not using other devices that use electricity. I’m thankful that doesn’t also mean air-conditioning. It’s a typical hot August here in mid-Missouri .

In my husband’s case, he is really offline and back to basics. In his work life he spends eight hours a day, five days a week at a computer as a programmer for an insurance company. But at this moment he is at a Jesuit retreat house in St. Louis where he will focus on the more ethereal subject of spirituality. He said his room has a bed, a desk, a bathroom and a view of the river, probably the Mississippi. He has no TV or radio and certainly no computer. He even has to turn his cell phone off except during breaks from presentations. I hope he enjoys the peace and rest.

In my case I am here at my health guide desk at Longitude Health experiencing the serenity of a temporary internet provider interruption. As the hours of the malfunction continue I’ve had to readjust my workflow. I’ve had time to reflect on some of the ongoing projects and complete a few things that were on hold on my “to do” list. I’ve even reviewed some of my notes from my initial job orientation on motivational interviewing. It’s been refreshing in a way, but I wouldn’t want it to go on indefinitely. At least I don’t think so.

For many people, especially those who live a type-A frenetic lifestyle, I think going off the grid of the high tech world might be a good thing to incorporate on a regular basis.  This slowing down and turning off would be a potential stress buster.  Perhaps that is one reason why many people who like to tent camp or backpack enjoy it so much, although I’ve heard that even they are bringing along their laptops and expecting campgrounds to provide wireless internet.

After writing this blog I’ll do something low-tech. I’m going to read a book, not a novel, but work-related. After all, I’m still on the clock. We at MyHealthVillage.com often suggest our clients adopt the DASH diet. I found a handy paperback at a bookstore, THE DASH DIET FOR HYPERTENSION. I’m going to reflect on how to advise my clients to change to healthier eating to lower blood pressure and reduce their risk for cancer, heart disease, diabetes and stroke and feel better both mentally and physically.

With your permission, I’d like to suggest you turn off your TV, radio, phone, laptop and other high tech distractions and read a useful book, maybe THE DASH DIET FOR HYPERTENSION. You can also find it online by clicking here to an online brochure.