TMCnet News
Life is more relaxing without the internet [Express & Echo (England)](Express & Echo (England) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) WHILE I was away recently one of the things that I enjoyed the most was the time away from technology. Not wanting to fork out on expensive roaming charges while away, I made sure I turned my phone off and only switched it on when I was in free wi-fi areas. I wouldn't say that I'm addicted to the internet, or that I need to constantly be online, but the nature of my job and life sees me spending a fair few hours online. It was so refreshing to be without it, to enjoy the scenery without thinking I must take a photo to share or constantly checking the latest news on Twitter. It may seem relatively simple, but I think sometimes we can forget what life was like without easy access to the inter net. I recently read a blog about this very topic that said: "I love the internet, but I love chocolate cake too... the difference between the two, is that I don't spend eight hours a day stuffing cake into my mouth. Why not? Because it's all about moderation and I think the same goes for the internet. " Thinking about this, my husband and I decided that we would venture into the unknown and schedule in some 'blackout' time. This is mainly evenings, when we sit down to dinner together and avoid the internet. The rules are these; no internet and no live television. Movies or box sets and music are fine and so is reading and talking. This doesn't have to be every week, or even for a whole night, it could just be a couple of hours. But, once you start you may like it so much you choose to make it a regular fixture. We have had two lovely evenings where phones have been "left at the door" and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It is so relaxing to switch off and I've even found that I've slept better as a result - an added benefit of allowing your brain time to "wind down". I love the internet and all the freedom it brings with it, but I am pleased that I have found a way to enjoy a little time without it. SO, the World Cup is officially over. Life can return to normal. I know that I've spoken of my dislike for the way it has taken over our life in previous years, but this year I think I have embraced it more than ever. Maybe that's to do with my two (not so small) boys who share their dad's love of the sport and have taken to supporting just about any team that's on. They've loved filling their Panini sticker books and asking about the different countries competing, and so on Sunday we all sat down to watch Germany beat Argentina in the final. The best part was after the match when Charlie, who had backed the winning team, said to his brother: "It's OK, Harry I'll share my winning sweets with you." Out of the mouths of babes. LASTLY, next month the wonderful Theatre on the Lawn returns to Escot with Roald Dahl's fabulous George's Marvellous Medicine on Tuesday, August 5. These open air performances in the park are not to be missed, and if you've never been I insist you try it. Take a picnic, some blankets and a bottle of wine for the perfect evening. (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |