Jacqueline's Weekly Newsletter 🤍

Happy Monday, everyone! I hope you had a wonderful week. This morning, after making a big family breakfast and enjoying some reading time with my kids, I’m settling in to memorize scripts while they dive into independent play. Later, we’ll be off to their various activities for the day.

Many of you have asked why I’ve been less active on social media lately. Life has been full, but I’ve also intentionally taken a social media detox—to set an example for my kids. I want them to reach for books instead of screens, and it’s been heartwarming to see them fully engaged in reading, even my one-and-a-half-year-old!

While social media is a powerful tool for connection and learning, it can also be overwhelming. The rapid influx of content can stir up a rollercoaster of emotions in minutes—sometimes without us even realizing it. Have you ever found yourself mindlessly scrolling, forgetting why you picked up your phone in the first place?

Research shows that constant social media use can impact brain development, particularly in how we process social rewards and interactions. I also limit screen time to protect my eyes. I’m grateful I don’t need glasses and practice eye exercises to keep them strong. Prioritizing sleep is another big one—especially as a parent. Exposure to blue light before bed can suppress melatonin and disrupt rest, so I avoid screens before sleep.

For those who spend a lot of time in front of screens, here are a few simple ways to support your well-being:
🔹 Morning Light: Get outside early in the day to support your circadian rhythm and eye health.
🔹 Balanced Diet: Eat foods rich in nutrients that promote vision and cognitive function.
🔹 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.

This week, I challenge you to be more intentional with your screen time. Skip the aimless scrolling and pay attention to how you feel. Can you engage with content from a place of mindfulness, without judgment or comparison?

Here are some questions to reflect on:
💭 How do I feel after spending time on social media—energized or drained?
💭 Does scrolling improve or worsen my mood?
💭 Do certain posts trigger anxiety, frustration, or insecurity?
💭 What else could I do with the time I spend mindlessly scrolling?
💭 Am I consuming content that truly benefits me, or just filling time?
💭 Could I replace screen time with something more fulfilling—reading, movement, or quality time with loved ones?

And remember these wise words from Prince:

“Use the Internet. Don’t let the Internet use you.”

Wishing you a mindful and productive week ahead!

Jacqueline