Social media hiatus

I can’t remember the last time I laid down to stare up into the sky and watch clouds. For the pure, simple joy of just watching them float by overhead. Too long. By years.

Here on Fleinvear the clear Arctic air provides optimum cloud viewing, but it took me a while to fully appreciate it. To be on Fleinvaer is to be unplugged. There is internet, which is wonderful for digital nomads such as myself. But, somehow most of the things upon which we rely on the internet and have come to take for granted as necessities fade into the background.

Since arriving 10 days ago, I have not been on social media*, looked at breaking news or kept up with my work emails. I have taken a social media hiatus. Have I missed any of that? That would be a solid ‘no.’ I have corresponded with some friends and family and sent photographs so they know I have not wandered off and become lost above the Arctic Circle (destined to become the subject of a NOVA special in a 100 years or so).

That connection to everything, everywhere at all times that comes with digital communication is ubiquitous in our society. The notion that we have to be available at all times and ready to respond in an instant. I know I get caught up in that. It’s not good for us. Humans need time to empty our minds, brains and spirits of the stress that comes riding on the information and communication highways. 

So instead of surfing the web, doom scrolling, checking on the latest IG and FB posts I’m enjoying leisurely cups of coffee, sitting in the sun, watching the birds, exploring the island, laying on the ground and watching clouds — for hours at a time.

And here’s the really interesting thing. All that and I’m so far more productive with my own writing, photography and photo-editing than I am back home. It’s a start reminder that access to so much with just a few clicks on a keypad is really just chaotic, intrusive, distracting noise.

Easier said than done while on a remote island above the Arctic Circle? Maybe. But I really hope I can bring this relaxed, oddly productive vibe home with me.

*I have asked someone to post to my Julia M Bayly Facebook and Instagram accounts for me so that I can share the beauty of this place. That's why you have seen some posts from me.