Chasing the sun

Lately, I’ve been trying a new approach when it comes to my screen time and online presence. I’ve started giving priority to the things that feel scarce in my life—sunlight, nature, fresh air. Instead of spending my days online, I’m choosing to do what’s truly important first. I’m chasing the sun, leaving the screen time for the evening.

Yesterday, for example, I spent time working in the backyard, getting my hands dirty, reconnecting with the earth. I ran some errands and even took a moment to relax under the sunlight. Today, I avoided my phone entirely. I kept myself busy cooking fresh homemade pasta and baking bread. I also treated myself to a refreshing drink while browsing books at my local bookstore.

Soul and body in the daylight

I’m not sure if there’s a formal name for this, but I’m trying to be fully present—soul and body—during the day. I believe it’s called circadian alignment. In other words, I’m chasing the sun and trying to sync my rhythm with it. I’ve realized how important that is for me.

Why stay inside during the day watching a movie, when there’s real life unfolding just outside? I’d rather be outside and in motion. I want to live a story that might interest no one else but still feels like mine.

Writing and watching TV at night

A good part of my screen time goes into writing this blog, which I consider meaningful. Still, I’m trying to live my life offline first—otherwise, what would there be to write about?

That’s why I’ve started writing only at night. Even after watching a show or a movie to unwind, I find it’s the right time to sit down and reflect. I’m essentially time-boxing my screen use to the evening, letting the daytime belong to the world beyond the screen.

In a way, I’m not focused on asking when to unplug. I just focus on doing what matters most first. And only afterward, if there’s time and space for it, I’ll plug in.