Breaking Free: A Guide to Refresh Your Spirit with Media Fasting

In a world overflowing with digital distractions, it’s all too easy to find ourselves ensnared in the web of social media. The endless stream of reels and algorithm-driven content can consume hours of our lives without us even realizing it. But what if there’s a way to break free and rejuvenate our spirits? Sister Nancy Usselmann explores this liberating journey in her insightful piece on media fasting.

Realizing the Impact

Many of us have experienced that moment of shock when checking our phone’s screen time. The realization of just how much of our lives are spent tethered to a screen can be an eye-opener. For some, like a young woman Sister Nancy spoke with, stepping away from social media even temporarily can stir anxiety and fear of losing digital connections. Yet, through media fasting, we take back control over our digital habits, rather than letting them control us.

The Inspiration Behind Media Fasting

The concept of media fasting as a spiritual discipline emerged for Sister Nancy when a young woman expressed her struggles after fasting from Instagram for Lent. This reflection paved the way for her book, “Media Fasting: Six Weeks to Recharge in Christ.” Media fasting isn’t about abstaining completely from digital interactions but about focusing on aspects of our digital consumption that dominate and detract from real-life connections and spiritual growth.

Implementing a Personalized Media Fast

We depend on media for communication, work, education, and staying in touch with loved ones. Instead of a full media blackout, consider identifying the most challenging or time-consuming digital habits. Whether it’s checking social media likes or binge-watching shows, tailor your media fasting plan to focus on these areas.

• Limit news watching to an hour daily.
• Set a cap of two hours a week for gaming.
• Remove the most distracting social media app from your phone.
• Replace podcasts with prayer during commutes.

Specifics are crucial for accountability. More importantly, envision engaging with activities outside digital screens, like calling a friend or pursuing a long-desired hobby, to fill the newfound free time.

Spiritual Rejuvenation Through Media Fasting

Media fasting is not just about cutting out content; it’s a chance to invite Christ into our media experiences. As we consciously pray over our media consumption, we align our lives with values that truly satisfy our hearts and souls. It becomes clear how certain content shapes our thoughts, prompting a deeper reflection on what truly fulfills us.

Join the Media Fast Challenge

Sister Nancy, with her religious community in Los Angeles, invites you to partake in the Media Fast Challenge during Lent. Together, you’ll find the strength to overcome the grip of compulsive screen use and renew your connection with Christ. As St. Paul reminds us, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

So, take the first step towards liberation, and in doing so, open your heart to the transformative power of silence and solitude away from screens. Reconnect with yourself, others, and, most importantly, with the divine.

(Sister Nancy Usselmann, a Daughter of St. Paul, directs the Pauline Center for Media Studies in Los Angeles and specializes in media literacy education.) According to The Catholic Register, becoming more intentional about our media use can pave the way for deeper reflection and spiritual enrichment.