As I type these words onto my blog, the clicking of keys fills the room, a familiar sound in today's world where technology reigns supreme. The glow of my computer screen illuminates the dimly lit room, almost like a beacon guiding me through the darkness. But as I continue to type and even utilize AI for most og the pictures and AI is even helping to edit this, I can't help but think about the importance of preserving our way of life and mental well-being in the face of the uncertainty we live in today.
With the current state of affairs and the immense power that technology tycoons hold over our lives, it may be time to reflect on how we used to live before their domination. We must also work on finding ways to maintain our mental health in a time of radical changes that are happening around us and will be affecting our own lives.
How Do We Get Away From Something So Integral To Our Lives and Even Livelihoods?
In today's society, it is nearly impossible to completely disconnect from the internet. It has become an integral part of our daily routines and for many, it is necessary for work and communication. As someone who works online from home through platforms like Zoom, I am acutely aware of this dependence. But as I ponder these thoughts and plan for my own future goals, I find myself wanting to share my ideas with others who may also be seeking a more retro lifestyle and less reliance on technology.
The Covid-19 pandemic has drastically altered our way of life, forcing us to rely even more on the internet for connection and survival. Our social interactions have been reduced to virtual platforms and we have become accustomed to relying on delivery services for essential goods. This shift has ultimately led to immense wealth for those who own these companies, giving them control over our daily lives and raising concerns about transparency and censorship in both business and government settings
As a staunch advocate for access to information and a free press, I am deeply concerned about the potential consequences of relying solely on media controlled by the government. In countries like China and Russia, where a free internet is banned and information is heavily censored, we have already seen the dangerous effects of this type of control. My fear is that if we do not take action now, our own freedom and the integrity of information will soon be compromised.
To combat this looming threat, I have compiled a list of tangible steps we can take towards reducing our dependence on technology for as much of our life and fostering self-sufficiency. Or even just using the internet to benefit the future we want. While these may seem like small actions, they can have a significant impact on preserving our mental health and autonomy in a world dominated by tech giants. Let us strive for balance and mindfulness as we navigate through these uncertain times.
It is worth noting that regardless of our financial situation, we are all consumers in today's society. These companies rely on consumerism to thrive, so it is not in their best interest to alienate or harm their customer base. It is essential that we use our power as consumers to demand ethical practices and responsible use of technology from these companies. By being mindful of our consumption habits, we can send a message that our well-being and autonomy should not be sacrificed for profit.
The accessibility of college and education is deliberately being restricted to those who are seeking upward mobility and better-paying jobs. This strategic move aims to fill factories with a workforce that will support our country's isolationist ideals. The reliance on cheap migrant labor for lower-paying jobs, such as crop harvesting, construction, cleaning services, and hospitality, will also need to be filled by other means. There may be a shift towards recruiting individuals who lack higher education qualifications.
We have witnessed the existence of countries with massive factories that operate under inhumane conditions. Workers are housed in company-provided accommodations (often referred to as "company towns") and even the thought of suicide is not uncommon, given their dire circumstances. In buildings with higher floors we have even seen “suicide nets” placed due to attempted suicides due to the working conditions. These workers do not have their own homes and use their wages to cover basic needs like food and shelter. In essence, they are subjected to indentured servitude or modern-day slavery. It is alarming to know that American companies have been outsourcing the production of their goods to these establishments outside of the United States.
The issue at hand is that without a consumer base to purchase these products, as they are all caught up in these complex situations, the question arises: who will be buying them? China had been selling to the U.S. due to our role as consumers. But what will become of it all now? However, I digress.
In this uncertain time, those of us fortunate enough to still have jobs and income are in a position of power as consumers. We can fight back against these forces by choosing where we spend our money and time - avoiding businesses and online platforms that support those who harm our country and its people. Many of us may feel hopeless and powerless, but in this capitalist landscape that has allowed unchecked wealth for certain individuals, we still hold the choice of who to support with our purchases. This holds true even as we are pushed towards certain situations, such as with TikTok. At present, media remains free (though there are attempts to control it through takeover of popular social media sites).
In certain circumstances, our actions are dictated by the limitations placed upon us. For instance, my elderly mother resides in a remote location where Starlink, Elon Musk's brainchild, reigns supreme and faces no competition. As a result, she is left with no alternative but to incorporate it into her daily routine. Hopefully, in this capitalistic society we live in, budding entrepreneurs will arise and find a solution to this injustice. Where my mother currently has no choice, she can embrace change and explore different avenues to break away from the monopoly of the wealthy elite and distribute resources more equally. This concept extends beyond just those within the Meta or Amazon corporations; it includes all members of our society that have been oppressed by such systems.
Survival Guide: Navigating Food and Goods in Uncertain Times
In the midst of challenging times, it's important to support our communities and small businesses who are fighting to stay afloat. This means shifting our purchasing habits to local stores, where we can directly impact our economy. Consider buying produce from nearby farmers or visiting farmer's markets during their respective seasons. And instead of turning to online giants like Amazon, look for handmade goods on sites like Etsy that support individual creators.
For those who prefer online shopping, consider diversifying your options and avoiding companies that have ties to the current administration. Instead, opt for smaller businesses or locally-owned shops that could use your support.
But let's not forget the joy of getting out and about in your own community. Dust off those walking shoes and make a day out of running errands, chatting with shop owners, and connecting with fellow community members. Even if you have certain limitations, like neuropathy, find ways to adapt - investing in comfortable shoes or using mobility aids can make all the difference.
And when it comes to stocking up on essentials, think about the origins of the products you're purchasing. With global supply chains being disrupted, it may be wise to hoard certain items that come from overseas, such as coffee or specific brands of rice. But don't rely solely on packaged foods - take some time to explore homemade options that not only benefit your mental health but also save money in the long run.
As I enter my 60th year of life, I find myself planning for something I have never done before: canning my own food. With the looming possibility of food shortages in the future, I can't help but wonder who will be picking the fruits and vegetables that sit rotting in the fields as immigrants are deported.
So, this summer, instead of relying on grocery stores, I plan to visit local farmer's markets and gather bushels of fresh, seasonal produce for canning. In preparation, I have already acquired a pressure-cooking pot specifically designed for canning vegetables and meat, as well as a beginner's kit for traditional canning methods. My mother used to can fruits and jams when I was younger; I remember helping her pit cherries with a special device she had purchased. We would often buy them from local farmers who charged by the pound from their orchards. We had so many cherries that we didn't know what to do with them all.
In light of current events, it seems like a good time to start being more self-sufficient and supporting local farmers by purchasing their produce. Luckily, there are also dairies in my area where I can buy dairy products.
To further prepare for any potential future challenges, I have been stocking up on canned goods for months now. High protein foods like chicken, chili, stews, soups, and beans are essential items that I continue to purchase while prices are still relatively low. Additionally, I have been buying extra bags of flour and yeast in case I need to make my own bread down the line – a skill I picked up during the pandemic out of necessity.
Overall, these efforts may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but they provide some sense of security and self-sufficiency amidst uncertain times ahead.
Transparency Is Being Taken Away/Mental Health And Choices About How We Get Our News
As the world grapples with political and environmental upheaval, access to transparent information has become increasingly important. However, recent events have shown that this access may be in danger.
Government websites dedicated to disease control and news have been shut down under the guise of temporary measures. It begs the question of how we will receive news in the future, and if it will be censored. The only remaining source for global updates is the WHO website, despite our nation's withdrawal from the organization. And while we may still track environmental progress through international efforts such as the Paris Climate Agreement, it remains uncertain if we will continue to have this privilege.
In these uncertain times, alternative sources of information become crucial. Organizations like Greenpeace, The Sierra Club, Defenders of Wildlife and the Humane Society offer insights on environmental issues and animal welfare through their websites. Yet even these sources may face legal battles against powerful oligarchs who seek to suppress them.
A long-forgotten tradition for me, is reading a hardcopy newspaper weekly. This week nostalgia and curiosity led me to order The New York Times, a seemingly "safe" choice in today's media landscape. With the decline of more liberal news sources and the rise of conservative extremes, I felt uncertain about where to turn for unbiased information. It seems even the financing and treatment of news outlets is shifting. Amidst all this turmoil, I've come to realize that limiting my news intake may be the key to staying informed without becoming overwhelmed. Instead of constantly checking social media feeds or keeping the news channel on 24/7, I've found solace in reading from sources known for their impartiality such as BBC and Reuters. I indulge in free online articles from The New York Times as a supplement to my weekly print edition that comes on Sundays. In this day and age, we are bombarded with news at all hours of the day and night. It's on our TV screens, social media feeds, and even pushed to our phones. With so much happening so quickly, it's tempting to consume every bit of information that comes our way. But as I've learned, this can lead to overwhelming anxiety and depression.
So instead, I limit myself to a few dedicated times each day to catch up on current events and allow myself to focus on other aspects of life in between. In the past, reading the paper over breakfast was enough and perhaps tuning into the evening news for an hour was sufficient. But now, every story feels urgent and crucial, leading us to become wrapped up in a constant cycle of fear and stress. Let us not forget that news was once reserved for important events that truly needed to be heard, rather than being used as a constant stream of content to feed our anxieties and even cause depression.
In an attempt to regain control over our own data and limit exposure to misinformation and propaganda, many are turning to alternative platforms like Bluesky. Developed by former Twitter employees, Bluesky offers a similar platform but with a focus on privacy and American ownership. As tech giants like Facebook (owned by Meta and Mark Zuckerberg) continue to dominate the social media market, these alternatives may prove to be vital in preserving independent thought and access to transparent information.
My partner introduced me to the Fediverse, a network that stands apart from the other mainstream platforms. Intrigued, I ventured onto Mastodon, joining the growing community of users who value independence and choice. It's refreshing to have alternatives that don't contribute to the pockets of multi-billionaires. The Fediverse offers a refreshing option for those who have been fleeing other platforms due to their involvement in politics. As for Microsoft, it's hard to escape their grasp as their reach is all-encompassing. I've heard stories of people struggling with using Apple products in school - even something as simple as connecting their laptop to a PC-friendly outlet can be a time-consuming task. Some students even had to borrow someone else's laptop just to complete an assignment. This inequality irked me, but within the Fediverse community, I feel a sense of fairness and inclusivity that is lacking elsewhere.
The weight of national politics and the current state of our democracy can be overwhelming for us as US citizens. Every day, we wake up to news that threatens our sense of security and morality. As a mental health therapist, I have seen firsthand the impact of these events on my clients. Many come to me in a state of panic and intense anxiety, particularly those from marginalized communities such as the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with Visas.
It is important to recognize that this is a larger issue than any one individual can solve. We may feel powerless in the face of these changes, but there are still things we can do to support our own mental wellbeing and help those around us. One way is by becoming more involved in our local communities through volunteering for causes we feel strongly about. This not only allows us to make a positive impact, but also creates a support network of like-minded individuals who share similar values and goals.
Whether it's feeding the hungry, caring for feral animals, or helping at-risk populations find shelter and food, there are countless ways to contribute and make a difference. As prices continue to rise and people struggle to make ends meet, our communities will need all the support they can get. The people we work with will be a support system and studies have shown that acts of altruism such as these can help with depression.
In the past few weeks, I have become deeply involved with my local ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) in the capitol city of my state. As someone who has worked for non-profits and with marginalized communities, and has a background in political writing from college, I feel compelled to volunteer 3-5 hours a week to this important cause. This is a new level of activism for me, and I am grateful to have comfortable shoes now for my peripheral neuropathy so I can fully commit to this effort.
Amidst the serious work, I have also found solace in comedy during these trying times. The Daily Show is my guilty pleasure, and Jon Stewart holds a special place in my heart as both a comedian and an advocate. He has tirelessly supported first responders and consistently practices what he preaches. With all that is happening in our country, I find myself religiously tuning in to the show and laughing wholeheartedly thanks to the talented comedians on staff. In times like these, humor truly is healing. Whether it's through stand-up specials or satirical news programs, finding moments of laughter can help us cope with the weight of our own problems. Throughout history, entertainment has been a source of comfort and escape during wars, economic downturns, and other difficult periods. Now more than ever, we need to embrace its power to bring joy and levity into our lives.
Hobbies That We Do With Our Hands Or We Create Physically In A Practical Way
In this fast-paced, technology-driven world, it's important to find balance and create a better quality of life. Instead of constantly scrolling through news feeds and limiting our screen time, we should engage in activities that don't involve screens at all. This could mean turning off the television and choosing to spend some time outdoors or with our furry companions.
For me, I plan on working dollhouse kits I bought years ago as part of my new and improved lifestyle.But there are endless possibilities for hobbies and crafts: crocheting, knitting, painting, pottery-making, woodworking, sewing, quilting, just to name a few. Many of us have picked up these hobbies during the pandemic and have found joy and fulfillment in them.
Gardening is another great way to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. While I personally struggle with gardening, there are alternatives such as utilizing farmers markets and joining co-ops. Community gardens are also a wonderful option for those who may not have yard space but still want to grow their own plants. Not only does this provide fresh produce, but it also allows for meaningful connections within the community. And even if you have limited space, you can still have a small indoor herb garden for cooking or canning.
And let's not forget about reading - a classic and enriching activity. Book clubs are a great way to discuss interesting topics outside of politics and make new friends. It's all about finding a healthy balance between work and leisure, both on and offline.
In Conclusion
As I conclude this blog article, I am eager to retreat to my quiet corner of the world and spend some quality time with my furry feline companions Sylvie Sioux and Vision Bob while I read a good book. As we slowly emerge from the grip of the pandemic, we are faced with new challenges and a different way of life. Our habits and routines have shifted, as many of us have become accustomed to ordering in and staying at home more often. These changes may be difficult to reverse, requiring extra effort and energy. But even small steps towards transitioning can make a significant impact.
As we navigate these changing times, it is important to support local businesses and align our purchases with our morals and ethics. By doing so, we can contribute to the betterment of our community and country. From my perspective as someone who works in mental health, I want to offer some tips that may help others during this time of transition. And I am open to hearing about additional coping mechanisms that others have found helpful in their own lives.
More than ever, we need to come together and connect with one another. The pandemic has kept us isolated for far too long, even becoming a habit for some. Let's make a conscious effort to renew our connections with those around us. Take care, everyone, and good luck in navigating these uncertain times. I will continue to share my thoughts and experiences through my blogs as things unfold before us.