Together with some colleagues, I did some “computer feasting” the last 6 weeks before Eastern 2011. As I have to do a lot of work in front of the computer, this feasting only applied to the senseless / slacking off part of using a computer: gaming, watching television/movies (I don’t have a TV on purpose), facebook, and the like. I tried this radical “abstinence” before, but was only able to do it in the group.

The effects were great: I read much more, spent more time with myself (sports, reflecting, better cooking) and, best of all, got into a much calmer mood. The reasons were

• more time means in less of a rush
• less information overflow
• more time with myself had a very positive psychological effect.

Although at times it was quite difficult to stay abstinent, those 6 weeks were my best in 2011. I plan on doing a fulll computer feasting again in 2012 – maybe even from 01.01.12 to Eastern. Try TV or full computer feasting for yourself! It is a big restriction, but therefore also a great experience. If you can’t do it on your own, do it in a group. Either here on 43things, or even better with people close to you. You won’t regret it!