"Before the age of technological distraction, we lived more in tune with our bodies. We spent more time outdoors where the sun regulated our circadian rhythms, which has been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and depression. Without constant distraction, people sat in their boredom, which became drivers of artistic endeavors, creative ideas, and human connection. But how many of us can remember the last time we were truly bored?Drove without music, or sat in a coffee shop simply looking out the window?"
"We currently subscribe to the myth that if everything is efficient and optimized, our lives will feel easy and pain-free. We can order just about anything with the press of a button, or access infinite entertainment to fill every idle moment. Machines clean our clothes, dishes, and soon, we'll be able to offload daily chores to household robots. At work, we can use AI to automate tedious tasks or avoid the sometimes painful "stuckness" of thinking."
People once lived more in tune with their bodies and spent more time outdoors, where sunlight regulated circadian rhythms and reduced anxiety and depression. Boredom often prompted artistic endeavors, creative ideas, and human connection. Digital devices have optimized daily life and eliminated natural pauses, making constant engagement the norm. Research shows that taking breaks throughout the day restores energy, improves focus, and inspires creativity. A cultural myth equates optimization with ease, and automation promises to remove friction. Yet rates of depression and anxiety among young people have risen substantially since 2005, linked to social media, academic pressures, and economic stress.
Read at Fast Company
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