We live in a world dominated by screens, algorithms, and instant connectivity. A world so busy, that spirituality might seem at odds with it. On last week's Sacred Origins podcast with Holly Boulle, one of the things we discussed was being discerning of what we consume in this digital age - and that conversation got me thinking....could your social do with a sage? 

Firstly, there's definitely some positives to everything digital - one that most springs to my mind is the access to spiritual teachings from around the world. Blogs, podcasts, online courses, and videos make it possible to explore various traditions, philosophies, and practices that years ago wouldn't have been available to us. We no longer have to wait for that teacher we so want to hear speak come to a town near us for a talk. The teachings are so easy to access - whether it be online, on an app - I take them round with me on my phone and can access them whenever I want or need!

Through social media platforms and online forums I've met and connected with many like-minded individuals with shared spiritual interests. I've been lucky that some have become really good friends in the 'real' world too. For someone who started this journey very solo, this belonging and support I will always be grateful for - and it's expanded my understanding of spirituality, other cultures and how all our journeys are so interesting and different.

But - there's always a but - at the same time, the devices that offer spiritual content are also major sources of distraction. Constant notifications and phone pings and social media scrolling has, too often, pulled me away from my spiritual practice.

And, as Holly and I also discuss, the social media platforms that connect us with so many people and ideas, often cause us to compare ourselves with others and the abundance of information available online can be overwhelming. It's easy to get lost in the noise.

We also have to be so careful online. As we move to more images and content being generated by AI we need to practice discernment. I fear it is going to get harder to find authentic, credible sources of spiritual guidance and information.

My advice is simply this - be mindful of what you're consuming. Remember that digital content is energy - like any other energy you encounter day to day. Cleanse it with good clear outs of pages, people, content that don't bring you joy. Protect yourself from it with digital detoxes, time away and unfollowing when you need to. 

And be mindful when you are online - engage with content that does light you up. Really listen, read and interact with the content that makes you feel good. You never know what it could bring you!