Unplugged

With advances in science and technology, we are constantly discovering new ways to improve our physical practice.

Technology has allowed us to stand on a vibrating mattress to stimulate muscle protein synthesis.

Through science we can induce similar physiological responses to hiking by hooking up to a biofeedback headset.

A continuous glucose monitor gives us immediate feedback based on our responses to different foods.

An apple watches will give us a gauge of our heart rate, calories burned and the intensity of a workout, all through a screen on our wrists.

However, our continued use may come at a cost. While all these devices are incredible tools, they may also inhibit us from a deeper understanding of ourselves.

When we become dependent on our Fitbit’s or too reliant on our calorie counting apps; we are outsourcing our most valuable data collector – our intuition.

It is through our intuition that we are able to connect to our body; our greatest teacher (this practice deserves a whole series of posts itself). However, as with any endeavour of mastery, we may need tools, assistance and guidance to achieve this.

This is where technology may be of benefit; a stepping stone which guides us to a deeper understanding of ourselves.

So how do we ensure that technology is working for us, rather than against us?

Firstly, we must recognise it for what it is – a tool which provides us with insights for understanding ourselves.

Then we must reflect on our use of technology – are we really utilising it as a tool, or is it stripping us of our intuition?

For technology and science will continue to advance, but so must our intuition and connection to our self.

P.S. For those interested in this topic, check out the book: Unplugged: Evolve from Technology to Upgrade Your Fitness, Performance, & Consciousness by Brian MacKenzie, Dr. Andy Galpin, and Phil White. It’s written by guys who understand the functional fitness space in a practical and applicable way: the data is digestible and the science is not overwhelming.