Facebook-Fast Food for the Brain?

After exercising this morning, I had the thought of how disciplined I’ve been regarding exercising and what food I’m eating. I picked up my phone and starting scrolling Facebook. It was early and none of my FB friends had posted anything new since the last time I checked, so I clicked on “videos” to mindlessly scroll the endless reels of information.

We all know by now that whatever we “like” or view for more than a couple of seconds, internet algorithms will send us more of similar content.

It occurred to me that I was being fed. I was “eating” what was put in front of me.

I thought it was somewhat satisfying, except if it were, why didn’t I get full? Why did I keep scrolling? Was only getting tidbits of info at a time, doled out by attractive, funny people, animals, and locations training my brain to be lazy? After all, if I’m reading a book, I may have to read a whole chapter, and ultimately the whole book to gain satisfaction.

Which begs the question; Is social media fast food for the brain?

It’s instantly available. We can find something to satisfy a craving. But is it ultimately unhealthy? Is it okay in small doses? Is it possible to keep it to small doses? What is a small dose?

What am I feeding my brain? Does it deserve better?

I’ve learned what foods are healthiest for my brain, and I make sure to consume them. Shouldn’t I do the same with the information I’m feeding my brain? I know the answer, so…

Where is the discipline I have in the other areas of my wellness?

I’ve been contemplating restricting my online time. I’m asking myself what I intend to gain or lose from such an action. Should I go without all social media cold turkey? Or start with time limits. After all there are also positive attributes of social media.

I didn’t realize how challenging this could be until I started considering my usage. It is occurring to me this is going to take more discipline than not reaching for a sweet, or a glass of wine. Even harder than deciding to exercise when I wake up. Wow. Gulp. Eek!

With food and movement, I just did it. I didn’t mull over “how or when” I would do it. This is taking some conscious consideration.

Two days ago, I dampened the “Pavlov’s dog response” by turning off all notifications. My thought being, if I don’t see a red dot on the FB, Instagram, and email icon on my iPhone I wouldn’t check them as often. That helped. In the teensiest of ways. But it’s a start. Today I’m going to come up with a plan to re-train my brain by putting limitations on my social media use.

I’ll let you know how it goes. And please, if you have had success reducing your online time, please do share.