As we become immersed in western society, we often feel that everything happens fast: time flies by, we disregard the importance of arriving on time, and we do not spend enough hours of the day doing what we want with our time. We feel tired, exhausted from our everyday routine, and only seem to have the minimal amount of energy to fulfill these daily tasks.
Along with the challenge of time, there's also this lack of communication and contact, and we frequently consider our cell phones, computers, and other devices as solely responsible for enabling us to keep in touch. We believe that, without them, communication would improve, and thus we would not be relying on screens or social networks. We seek spaces where we can feel connected, together with meditation and well-being techniques that make us feel focused, relaxed, and aware of the present. We look for moments of distraction. It makes me wonder: why do we keep blaming the the exterior world, when what we really have to pay attention to is our inner self?
Let's examine the concepts of mindfulness and technology.
Mindfulness is a concept or practical knowledge that brings us intentionally to the present state of consciousness. It means paying full attention to the present. Various techniques are used to achieve this, especially breathing.
Technology is defined as the combination of knowledge and techniques that, applied in a logical and orderly way, allow the human being to modify their material or virtual environment to meet their needs.
How does technology bring us closer to mindfulness?
When we do not have actual time to resort to any practice, class, or meditation.
When we are traveling or we cannot organize our weekly schedules to go to classes or practices.
When we want to explore and incorporate knowledge from other countries, languages, or new places.
When we want to connect with professionals who live far away.
When we want to have a guided practice in our home, alone, without disturbances or noises, at a time that suits us.
There are thousands of applications that encourage wellness, yoga, mindfulness, guided meditations and more - all thanks to technology. Therefore, both concepts invite us to enjoy the present in a conscious and harmonious way.
The key to intelligently utilizing technology is allowing yourself to use (and not abuse) it in ways that aid your mindfulness, not hinder it. If we use these tools effectively to remain conscientious, then we use them to our advantage.
So, are mindfulness and technology compatible? Absolutely, yes!
Camila Riganti
My name is Camila Riganti, I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I’m a yoga instructor for my new method called Yoga Balance®. I’m also a sports nutritionist and a dancer. I studied yoga in different schools and studios all around the world, including Brazil, New Zealand, and Australia. I have developed new ways of connecting yoga with movement and a healthier life style.Yoga Balance® is a modern style of yoga that seeks to develop each person's physical, mental and spiritual wellness by integrating different traditions and styles of yoga. From physical postures (asanas) and movement to the stillness of mind in meditation techniques. It is a holistic method, that simply looks to enlarge the connection between the self-being and the present time. I invite you to take a closer look at this method, and everything it has to offer you.