What are you getting used to now that could be detrimental in the long run?
A few years back, whenever I made idlis, I would look at the clock and remember the time to switch off after steaming for 10 min. The mind will have that active thought running, "Idlis on the stove, need to switch off at 7:25".
Then Google Home arrived (it was a gift). In the initial days, it felt so funny and uncomfortable to give commands, but over time, I got used to it. As soon as idli plates were placed in the steamer, I would yell from the kitchen - "OK google, timer for 10 minutes", and I'd forget about it. After the timer rings, I'd go and switch off the stove.
This is just a tiny behavioral change. And there is nothing wrong with relying on technology to ease our mental load. But what we lost in the bargain - being aware, time-conscious, and mindful.
A similar change happened with remembering phone numbers. In the 2000s, I would have remembered at least 10 phone numbers of family members and friends. But nowadays, except for 2-3 numbers, I hardly know anyone else's. One could argue - "Our memory could be put to better use. Why waste it on such mundane stuff?" Think about it - Was our memory better when we used to remember such small, seemingly insignificant things or when we google every little fact or peek into our phones every few minutes? In my experience, my memory power (which used to be very good) has declined over the years.
These experiences and realizations are the effects of our actions in the past 10-15 years. Our present actions will have repercussions in the next 15 years.
What are those habitual changes we are "getting used" to today? What are those conveniences we have adopted without much thought or contemplation?
A few examples from an urban context include instant delivery of groceries, food, medicine, etc. We used to walk a few steps earlier to buy groceries or to grab a quick bite from a nearby eatery. We have outsourced seemingly mundane tasks like grating coconut, making idli batter at home, shelling green peas, making spice powders, etc. In the bargain, we have got extra time on hand. How are we making use of that time?
My intention is not to judge these conveniences and classify them as "good/bad" but rather reflect on what we expect to gain from them and adopt them mindfully, along with the awareness of what we might lose.
An example from the Yoga world - Regular poses and movements that were part of our lifestyle have now become challenging to perform - asanas like Malasana, Chakki Chalanasana, duck walk, etc.
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