Distractions from living or thinking for yourself seem to be getting ever more prolific. Not just the ever present, ever turned on, television with technology allowing you to never miss a programme; but also the phones at most turned to silent, with constant emails & texts keeping us informed about the world around us. When do we remember to stop & notice this world first hand. To smell the fresh air & to communicate face to face with family & friends?
Even at times such as Christmas; traditionally about family & quality time. Modern technology has encouraged reliance on television for keeping up with Christmas specials & films, games such as Xbox & Wiifit rather than exercising with friends. Consumerism encourages people to shop from home on Christmas day to get the sale bargains first, before they’ve even put Christmas gifts away or spent time with family.
Maybe I am ranting in a non yogic manner but I get constantly frustrated by the avoidance of living. People prioritizing watching television or shopping over living. Consuming ever increasing amounts of ‘things’ that society has told them they should own rather than looking at what they actually need. No I’m not perfect, I occasionally watch a film or treat myself to something just because I want it and not because I need it. However I am proud to say I will often not watch television for months, relying on the radio to keep me updated with vital information, such as traffic reports or the weather! I own a laptop, but not the latest iPad. I try not to be sucked in by advertisements by avoiding magazines & television and I notice the difference in my level of contentment.
It seems that you less you want, the more you appreciate what you have. I have been part of the consumer society, craving the latest gadget or pair of designer shoes. Now I am happy in the knowledge that I can live with a lot less & somehow live a lot more!! By not watching television I have time to read, to chat to friends, to explore the countryside with my dog, to try new hobbies. I am learning more about myself and what makes me happy, and it is not what society says should make me happy! It’s not a new sofa in the January sales or a holiday somewhere hot. It’s time spent quietly enjoying my breath or playing with the dog, being creative or exploring my yoga practice.
Distractions such as material possessions are, as they imply in the Buddhist tradition, part of what keeps us from achieving peace & contentment. Happiness is not about giving up on society or the wonders of new technology. Instead I feel it is about choosing what to take from the modern world & what to keep for yourself. Peace & quiet & the ability to play are under rated in modern society. My new years resolution is to appreciate this more & to try & explore further what makes me happy…