Written by Ashish Singh, Life Coaching and Healing
Ashish, founder of the calm mind life coaching in Toronto GTA, ranks among the top 10 life coaches, blending eastern wisdom and western techniques in his 'Medit-action' approach. With 15 years of experience, he's committed to enriching lives, promoting peace and clarity, and charting paths to success and happiness—one mind at a time.
Every swipe, every click—what feels like a mere moment in our digital day is actually shaping us more than we might realize. Recently, I noticed how my mood shifts after an evening spent scrolling through social media. What starts as a casual check-in can sometimes leave me feeling anxious, upset, or even angry.
I've observed many of my friends falling down this same rabbit hole. Have you ever noticed feeling increasingly anxious after a session of scrolling through your social media feed? If so, you're not alone. As a life coach deeply immersed in the nuances of digital wellness, I've observed this in my clients and, admittedly, in myself. Our devices, ever attuned to our preferences, are adept at serving up exactly what will keep us engaged—even if it's not what's good for us.
Understanding the digital content cycle
The content we consume can profoundly affect our mood and mental health. Scientific studies, such as those published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, have found significant links between high levels of social media use and depression or anxiety.
This is exacerbated by our tendency to engage with content that reinforces our pre-existing beliefs, known as confirmation bias. This bias not only distorts our view of the world but also intensifies our emotional responses, fueling negative emotions and leaving us vulnerable to misinformation. Media platforms, designed to captivate and retain our attention, often amplify this bias, solidifying our most entrenched views.
The rise of digital reactivity and troll culture
In this era of quick content consumption, many of us find ourselves becoming 'digital reactors'—quick to judge and even quicker to comment. This reactive behavior can often lead us into the depths of troll culture, where anonymity and distance make it easy to express vitriol we would likely avoid face-to-face. As F. Scott Fitzgerald wisely noted,
"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function." In the realm of social media, this means stepping out of our echo chambers and engaging with opposing viewpoints without losing our composure or sense of self.
Strategies for mindful media consumption
To escape the grip of toxic digital consumption, consider these mindful strategies that have shown real benefits:
Mindful Consumption: If any content evokes negative emotions, stop. take a few yogic or deep breaths to center yourself before deciding how or if to respond.
Pause and Reflect Before Posting: Before reacting to a post or leaving a comment, pause. Reflect on whether your words will add value or potentially ruin someone's day. Sometimes, our online expressions direct hate towards another human being, exacerbating their distress and ours.
Schedule Positive Content: Intentionally set times to engage with positive, uplifting content. This helps balance the emotional impact of negative news and can shift the algorithm in your favor.
Diverse Viewpoints: Actively seek content that challenges your existing beliefs. This not only broadens your perspective but also softens ingrained biases.
Digital Detox: Regular intervals of unplugging from digital devices can refresh your mind and reduce dependency on social media for emotional engagement.
Conscious Engagement: Each time you log on, ask yourself if you are contributing to positivity or negativity. This simple question can transform your online presence.
Conclusion
Navigating the digital landscape wisely is crucial for maintaining our mental health. By actively choosing to engage with diverse and positive content and practicing mindful consumption, I've been able to savor the world more fully appreciating nuances and perspectives that were once overshadowed by my biases.
Remember, sometimes all it takes is a single piece of negative content to undo the good work of positivity. Don't let this happen. The world needs more love and consideration for others; hate is a lose-lose situation, whereas love is win-win. Engaging in compassionate interactions stimulates the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," which enhances feelings of happiness and connection.
If you're finding it difficult to establish healthy digital habits, talk to me. As a life coach, I'm here to guide you through creating a balanced digital life, one where you can enjoy the benefits of connectivity without the pitfalls of falling prey to digital discontent. Let's work together to ensure your media consumption supports your wellness, not detracts from it.
Ashish Singh, Life Coaching and Healing
Ashish Singh, the founder of The Calm Mind Life Coaching, has transformed his personal battles with anxiety and depression into a beacon of hope for others. His journey, marked by profound struggles and ultimate triumph over mental health challenges, fuels his passion to ensure that no one faces such trials alone. Through The Calm Mind Life Coaching, based in the heart of Toronto, Ashish offers a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility in the tumult of life.
Introducing 'Medit-Action', Ashish merges meditation's calm with practical steps, akin to a mental gym for building resilience against mental health issues. This innovative approach draws from Eastern and Western philosophies, guiding individuals towards lasting calmness and happiness.
