WISDOM OF THE WEEK - Does ‘scrolling’ feel relaxing?

In today's digitized world, the moment we get a few free minutes, we reach for our phones and start scrolling. Whether we are waiting at a bus stop, sitting at an airport, taking a lunch break, or lying in bed before sleep, scrolling has become our preferred way to relax. People of all ages often say the same thing when asked how they unwind: "I scroll through my phone."

SEARCH FOR EFFORTLESS MOMENTS

Have you ever wondered why scrolling feels so relaxing? After all, everything we watch and hear affects our minds. The information we consume influences our emotions, thoughts, and decisions. Yet mindless scrolling often feels relaxing.

Back in the days, people relaxed differently. They read books, talked with loved ones, played with children, walked in nature, or simply sat down with neighbours, shared stories, and laughed together. (Now days, how many people know who’s their neighbour?). These activities allowed the mind to rest without pressure. Today, even families sitting at the same dining table may be looking at separate screens, unburdening through scrolling.

The biggest reason scrolling feels easy is that it usually comes without expectations. There is no target to achieve, no performance to deliver, and no result to produce. The mind experiences a temporary break from the constant demands of life.

WHEN GOALS REPLACE JOY

Children teach us an important lesson about enjoyment. Watch children playing a game. They laugh, run, and enjoy the activity itself. The joy comes from being present.

However, when competition, rankings, and performance become the focus, the same activity feels stressful. A child who happily plays football with friends may begin to feel pressure when every match becomes a test of success or failure.

This pattern extends far beyond sports. Many of our daily activities become tiring because they are tied to goals, expectations, and outcomes. The moment we ask, "What will I gain from this?" the natural joy begins to disappear.

BRINGING JOY BACK TO LIFE

The popularity of scrolling reveals something deeper. Human beings long for moments where nothing needs to be achieved. We seek spaces free from pressure and constant striving.

The formula is simple: life is not only about accomplishing goals; it is also about experiencing the present moment. Childhood often feels joyful in memory because children live, they naturally 'be', rather than wanting to 'become' something.

We must bring some of that spirit back into our lives again. Every day, set aside a few moments to achieve nothing. Just sit, breathe, and simply appreciate the life flowing to you. In those moments, you may discover that lasting relaxation comes from fully living it and not escaping. And when we learn to simply be, the relaxation we have been searching for begins to emerge. Try it!

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.