Why stepping back from screens might be the most effective thing you do this year!
We live in a world that never stops buzzing, pinging, and notifying. Smartphones promised to make life simpler—but in many ways, they have made us more scattered, anxious, and distracted from the things that matter most. (Does this image look familiar?) We hate it when we see this – but you know, it’s EVERYWHERE!
More than ever, we need to consider that sometimes the best way to reconnect is to disconnect.
As you know, we have seen the decline of the human brain in Caring Medical patients from structural causes that stem from too much device use and forward-head posture. This is not a benign situation – it is an accelerating, progressive condition.
We do not want to become some of our own statistics, thus, we have embraced APP-stinence – in other words, abstaining from Apps on our cell phones. No X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and the like. Dr. Hauser has even switched to a flip phone.
Here are some things we have learned:
The Toll of Constant Connectivity
Smartphones are not inherently evil—but our overdependence on them is having these effects:
– Mental fatigue and brain fog from endless scrolling
– Reduced attention span and ability to think clearly
– Weakened empathy and relational depth (with REAL people)
– Disconnection from God, people, and even ourselves
As Romans 12:2 says:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
We cannot renew our minds when they are constantly being pulled in a thousand digital directions!
Clarity in Quiet
Jesus modeled this. He often withdrew to lonely places and prayed (Luke 5:16). He stepped away from the crowd to connect with the Father. If the Son of God needed quiet, how much more do we? But, do we take time for quiet? We don’t know about you, but we feel like we are not doing enough if we are sitting quietly reflecting. It is quite hard to actually do it.
We need stillness so we can hear – away from the chaos of the world.
And we need the kind of space where we can hear the Holy Spirit whisper, “This is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21).
We argue that it will be very difficult to hear that with a phone glued to your hand/ear.
Try This: Digital Detox with a Purpose
This is not about guilt, but about freedom. And for some, this seems absolutely impossible, almost freakishly scary. But, it will be worth it in the long run – if you are looking for peace and clarity of mind!
– Switch to a flip phone for a week—or even one day per week.
– Create screen-free mornings to protect your peace.
– Keep your phone put away during work, meals, church, or times with friends/family.
– Take a walk without headphones. Let your mind breathe.
– Start the day in quiet meditation, prayer, or Scripture—before you check email.
1 Thessalonians 4:11 says it simply:
“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life.”
What a countercultural, beautiful challenge.
Less Noise. More Presence.
Put the phone down. Look someone in the eyes. Step outside. Breathe deeply. Let your mind rest. You’ll be amazed at what comes into focus.
There is wisdom in stillness.
There is healing in silence.
And there is clarity in quiet.
We think you will be a better person for it – disconnect in order to reconnect.
(And let us know how it goes!)