In researching my recently published book “Embody: The Power of Presence in an Age of Distraction,” I discovered something important about those clever, witty political posts we’re all tempted to share.
Even if they align with our views, unless it provides something that allows us to learn new information or offers a different perspective that helps us grow, these posts do three things that undermine the wellbeing of everyone who is tempted to forward them:
1. They hijack our nervous system
Those momentary hits of righteousness trigger the body’s stress response. Brains can’t distinguish between physical threats and perceived social/moral ones. Each political outrage post—even those we agree with—floods our system with stress hormones, contributing to inflammation, elevated blood pressure, and compromised immune function over time.
2. They erode our capacity for presence
The dopamine hit from sharing outrage feels productive, but it’s an illusion. These posts keep us locked in a perpetual state of reactivity rather than thoughtful response. True presence—which research shows is essential for creativity, problem-solving, and authentic connection—becomes impossible when we’re constantly triggered.
3. They widen divides rather than healing them
These posts aren’t designed to change minds—they’re designed to reinforce tribal boundaries. The momentary satisfaction we feel comes at the expense of the bridge-building society desperately needs. As I explore in “Embody,” meaningful change comes through genuine connection, not through clever takedowns that only divide and angers us.
A Simple Way Forward
In “Embody,” I offer a straightforward practice I call the “Pause Button”:
When you feel the urge to share or respond to political content, simply pause. Take three deep breaths. Then ask yourself one question:
“Will sharing this bring more presence or more division into the world?”
That’s it. No complex techniques. No elaborate practices. Just a moment of awareness before acting.
This tiny pause creates space between stimulus and response. This is where presence lies. In that space lies our power to choose differently.
I know it’s not easy—however in this fast moving world of ours, these tiny daily moments of presence can help you reconnect again with your body. That is your center of stability in this digital world. And just think: If more of us took just this one small step, imagine how the online spaces could transform.
Sometimes the most powerful change doesn’t require more doing – it requires a moment of being fully present.
It’s all about changing the world, one person at a time. Let the next person be you.
Love, Andrena