Does ancient wisdom still have a place in the modern world — especially when we can access the sum total of human knowledge through our phones? But the phone may, in fact, be the problem. Digital distractions have become an inescapable part of modern life, pulling us away from meaningful moments and deeper connections. These constant interruptions from our phones and devices not only drain our time but also numb us to our true emotions and the present reality.

In this episode, we have Steve and Joshua talk about addressing an issue in the lives of many: the constant digital distraction of our phones and devices. It’s a modern-day struggle that attacks our mental health, focus, and overall well-being. Steve and Joshua offer practical insights rooted in ancient wisdom, like the practice of Sabbath, simplicity, and solitude, that can transform how you engage with your world. Through their personal stories and wisdom, you can learn to reclaim control over your digital habits and, ultimately, your life.

Tune in to be inspired by Steve Smith and Joshua Luke Smith's journey and discover how you, too, can live a life of rest, free from the constant pull of digital distraction.

Here are three reasons why you should listen to this episode:

1. Gain practical strategies for a digital detox to reclaim control over their time and mental space.
2. Understand the power of ancient wisdom practices like Sabbath, solitude, and simplicity to transform your life.
3. Learn to identify and combat digital temptation that numbs us to our emotions and reality.

Resources

• Living from Rest course: Website | Instagram | Facebook
• App Blocker Opal: Website 
• Joshua Luke Smith LinkedIn
• Sign up for a FREE excerpt on Lucinda Smith's book, 'The Red Thread': Forgive

Episode Highlights

Tenets of Ancient Wisdom: Sabbath, Solitude, and Simplicity

• Steve Smith and Joshua Luke Smith discuss the challenge of defeating digital distraction and living a life of rest.
• They promote their course "Living from Rest" which provides insights and practical tips for managing digital distractions.
• Steve and Josh explore three practices (Sabbath, solitude, and simplicity) that have transformed their lives and led them to live from rest.
• Josh shares how these practices have been a game-changer in their family. Even their four-year-old granddaughter is aware that the Sabbath is a holy day.

Sabbath Rest and Digital Detox for Mental Health

[6:36] Joshua: “The more you step into rest, the more you achieve the deep sense of security and fulfillment that we long for.”

• Steve reflects on Fiddler on the Roof, cherishing time with family .
• The Sabbath day involves rest — and that means abstaining, letting go, and giving up.
• Ancient wisdom actually had a focus on mental health and well-being, particularly the concepts of Sabbath. In modern terms, that could help create a digital detox.

Digital Detoxes and Finding Solitude in Small Spaces

[13:41] Joshua: “If you want freedom and liberation, if you want fulfillment, you need to pursue less.”

• The concept of a digital detox has its historical roots in spiritual ancient wisdom.
• Joshua Luke shares his experience of spending time in cells, both in prison and monasteries.
• The words of Abba Moses came to Joshua Luke’s mind, reminding him to go to his cell for guidance.
• Benedictine monks view cells as a space for spiritual growth and connection, with a Latin connection to mean something of heaven.

The Value in Self-Reflection

• According to Joshua, pursuing less can lead to fulfillment, rather than pursuing more.
• Joshua Luke Smith struggles with inner turmoil and seeks advice from Carl Jung, who suggests being alone for 14 days.
• Despite following Jung's advice, Smith still feels agitated and frustrated, highlighting the challenge of defeating digital distraction.

Practical Tips for Avoiding Digital Distraction in the Bedroom

Joshua: “Distraction is an anesthetic; it's a way of numbing ourselves to the deeper realities of life.”

• Distraction separates us from our emotions and humanity, according to Joshua Luke.
• Ancient wisdom in the modern day manifests itself as practical tips.
• Phone-free time and mindfulness practices are some practical ways that Steve Smith suggests for escaping digital distraction.
• Steve advises against listening to shame and instead suggests moving away from it through meditation and remembering one's identity.
• Joshua Luke suggests starting small. Find a designated charging spot for your phone outside of bedroom and gradually increase the duration of phone-free time.

Using Phone Apps to Manage Screen Time and Digital Distractions

• Joshua Luke Smith shares his experience using an app blocker called Opal to limit phone usage.
• He suggests replacing phone time with new habits, such as reading books in the toilet or practicing Sudoku.
• Steve and Joshua Luke discuss the importance of taking breaks from technology and finding ways to live from rest.
• They emphasize the need to confront the underlying issues that lead to tech addiction and find healthy ways to manage screen time.

About Joshua Luke

Joshua Luke Smith is a poet, writer, and co-founder of the Live from Rest app. As a passionate follower of Jesus Christ, Joshua integrates ancient spiritual practices like Sabbath, solitude, and simplicity into his life, finding deep fulfillment and rest in a world filled with distractions. Dedicated to helping others discover peace amidst the chaos, Joshua leads by example, sharing practical yet ancient wisdom on how to live a life centered on rest and spiritual growth.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about tips on battling digital distraction based on Joshua’s firsthand experience and journey to overcome it.

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