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Using Meditation to Overcome E-Mail Stress

by Terrence O'Brien on April 26, 2009 at 01:02 PM

We've discussed before how constant connectivity has become a source of stress, distraction, and even addiction for Americans. We've even suggested taking regular breaks from technology, where you completely unplug for a day or a week, just to get a respite from the constant barrage of IMs and e-mail that so many of us face.

Soren Gordhamer, a self-proclaimed stress-reduction expert, however, suggests that occasionally unplugging is less important, and less effective, than learning to be "consciously' rather than 'constantly' connected." Gordhamer suggests using techniques practiced by Zen Buddhists, like breathing exercises and five-minute meditation breaks, to maintain focus and prevent yourself from feeling overwhelmed.

We're generally pretty skeptical of self-help books like Gordhamer's 'Wisdom 2.0 - Ancient Secrets for the Creative & Constantly Connected,' but we think he might actually be on to something here. We're still big supporters of taking an occasional sabbatical from technology, but, if we learn to slow down and manage our constant electronic input, perhaps it won't be as necessary to disappear into the woods with no cell phone reception for two weeks. [From: Reuters]

Tags: addiction, e-mail, health, internet addiction, InternetAddiction, meditation, self help, SelfHelp, stress, top, zen

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