Nowadays, technology plays a large role for individuals young and old, for business or pure entertainment, among other purposes, which is something I have come to realize over the course of my own technology use. Technology seems to be the greatest thing created. Convenience, entertainment, and efficiency – what more would you need? While complex and fascinating, perhaps it would be a good idea to take a break from technology, solely for an escape from its overstimulating abilities, right? For fifteen minutes, I put down my phone and turned myself away from any other technological stimulation, allowing for what I thought would be a session of tranquility. There may be a presumption that engaging in this activity would be beneficial, but even with the attempt to be alone with my emotions and wonders, the power of anxiety managed to take over.

Anxiety is something that has been more present in my life recently, and while I would want nothing more than to be in peace with myself without technology, often times I cannot stop my mind from racing from the moment I wake up until I close my eyes and fall asleep at night.

I tend to worry and stress over certain things, and by that I mean everything. From the smallest obligation such as packing for a weekend trip to organizing my schedule while in college, the overwhelming emotions are far too strong. During the fifteen minutes I sat without technology, I could not help but think about my upcoming assignments and the stress to come in the future, among other things. Those close to me say I need to relax, not think too far ahead, and not stress myself out; while I try my best, and you know the saying, it’s easier said than done.

While I thought the fifteen minutes I sat alone would perhaps feel like the end of a yoga class, I was proven wrong. Phones can serve as a distraction from other more important tasks or the need for a mental break. And while I, along with every other individual have become distracted from a task at hand due to the intriguing abilities of my phone, I found that anxiety served as even more of a distraction in the fifteen minute time frame which I presumably thought would be the relaxing mental break I needed.

By: Toni Abdy