Recently, I've shared how our family has decided to slow down and unplug once a week. To revel in simple activities and be together without the distraction of the internet, TV, texting, etc. We aren't very rigid people, so there is a bit of fluidity to this practice, but for the most part - those are our 'rules.'
What sort of things do we do on Unplugged Sunday?
Well, it varies. But mostly we spend as much time hiking in the woods as possible. We also read endlessly, cook mindfully, create quietly, connect spiritually, visit with friends, play in the garden, and generally choose to enjoy the set apart day.
Each Sunday is unique, that much is true.
Some of you have told me that your family has been inclined to unplug a little, here and there, after reading about our experience. How awesome are you for doing that!
I wonder if any of you have made it a regular practice? Or maybe you would like to make it one? If so, are you interested in sharing your thoughts and experiences in an article that could be shared with the world?
You see, my family and I are cooking up a little project and we'd like to invite a few other people (or families) to lend their voices too. It will be a place here on the web, a place for all to visit and find inspiration, a place to pause and soak in the goodness that comes as we choose to slow down and notice the gift of a quiet day.
We don't really see it fitting into my home here at Beauty That Moves - it feels bigger, more expansive than that. We feel it's important to give Unplugged Sunday space to grow on it's own, if that is what it is meant to do. Plus, we want to make room for my husband (who happens to be one fine writer) to lend his voice regularly. And you? We would be honored to have the stories and photos of other families shared as well.
Would you care to submit a story?
What should your Unplugged Sunday look like?
Here's one thing I know for sure... Unplugged Sunday is a state of mind.
Not everybody has Sunday available, or a full day even. But most of us, if we look honestly at our calendar, can find a pocket of time to slow down and unplug - either alone or as a family. Maybe your practice will be Unplugged Monday Morning, or Unplugged Thursday After School. See what I mean? The important thing, I have found, is to make the commitment.
It doesn't become healing and life-changing until it is a practice. Dare I say, a discipline?
I have a hard time placing strict parameters on something as sweet and mellow as a day of rest and connection. Here's the thing though, if we don't self-impose a few guidelines, things can get too loosey-goosey in a heartbeat. A little discipline can be a good thing.
The 'big rules' for our family:
- computers do not get turned on
- no ipod (texting or games - music is fine)
- no TV (though we are open to a movie at the end of the day if our teenager daughter suggests it)
It's really not that restricting, is it? But you'd be amazed at how long and peaceful the day can be if those three things are not included.
So, to be specific, we'd love to have a few people share their unplugged stories with us on this project (which we will be revealing in the next few weeks).
For us, Unplugged Sunday can be summed up by these five simple topics:
Time together, in nature.
Connect to spirit.
Cooking with intention.
Make the world more beautiful.
Gather with friends for simple and good times.
Does this speak to you? Would you like further information about submitting your story?
Email me at threadcityyoga @ yahoo dot com (or use link on the tab bar, top of this blog).
In your email:
- Please tell us what Unplugged Sunday means (looks like) for your family.
- If you write a blog, include a link to that.
- Do let us know what topic(s) you'd like to write about!
Updated: For me details, Download Unplugged Sunday - An Invitation
Thank you! Enjoy the weekend everyone!
