In today's fast-paced digital world, where communication has become increasingly instant and impersonal, sending a handwritten note is powerful way to live with intention. It is vital, if we are to survive the crazy whirlwind of virtual reality, that we become aware of when and where we allow ourselves to enter that world and MORE importantly, what our exit strategy is. Otherwise, we end up living our real, tangible lives in a fake, virtual reality. Studies have shown that too much time online or on our devices increases anxiety, depression, poor sleep, and higher risk of obesity. And to put things in quantifiable terms, the average person spends 6 hours and 37 minutes a day online. That's 45 1/2 HOURS a week! that's more than a full work week! I don't know how much you get paid, but if time were money, that's a LOT of cash left on the table of life. That's 3 solid months of your life per year. Count me out.
That's where intentional or slow living comes in. Our exit strategy has to be a conscious intention to purposefully NOT be on our phone. To rid ourselves of the habitual nature of checking, responding immediately, and scrolling. I've found that it's great (and painful at first) to detox from technology, but once the habit is broken, it comes right back unless we fill that time with something. By something, I don't mean pointless time wasters. Something helpful. Something healthy. Something that makes our lives better.
Sending someone a hand written note is a great way to fill that time void. It's simple, and easy, the tools are readily available (and if they aren't for you anymore, that's okay! I've got you! ). Whether it's a birthday, a special occasion, or just a simple hello, the act of sending a card can sprinkle meaning, purpose, and well-being into our lives. Here's 5 reasons why:
1. Sending a card requires time (but not a lot), effort (even less), and mindfulness. It says more than a quick text or social media message - that your recipient is worthy of your attention and care. It creates a thoughtful connection between you and to whom you're writing. Now more than ever, because happy mail is so rare, your perceived effort will make a real impact on that person and it can shake both of you out of a digital stupor.
Not only that, but a fun side-effect is the simple feeling of joy we had as children when you slip that envelope into the mailbox and raise the flag on the side. Does anyone else still remember how fun that was? Such a good feeling- it's like knowing how excited the person is going to be when they open the gift you picked out for them (because you NAILED your gift selection.)
AND as if that wasn't enough of a wonderful benefit, sending a card requires that you walk to your mailbox. Outside. In nature. Feel free to take a few deep breaths on your way to the mailbox. Maybe stretch a little. It's a great break for your body!
okay, onto the second reason.
2. In a world dominated by digital interactions, physical objects hold a unique power. When you send a card, you can choose beautifully crafted designs that evoke the emotions you wish to express. That engages the sight senses which wakes up the brain. The different colors predominant in the design you choose actually trigger different emotional responses in the brain. When you choose a card, pay attention to the way the colors make you feel. If it aligns with the message you want to convey, it's the right choice. Tapping into that sensory message helps develop empathy as well because it's not your emotion you're reflecting on, it's the person you're writing to whose emotions you are considering.
Holding and reading a physical card provides a tangible reminder of the thought and effort put into the message. It engages the touch sensory receptors. It's funny how something as un-noticeable as how thick or heavy or smooth or rough the paper feels IS ACTUALLY noticeable. When we slow down and choose with care, the quality of the paper matters. It sends a message all on its own. Think I'm talking nonsense? Think about this: unless it's a small child, you wouldn't send a card printed on basic printer paper. Would you? It matters.
3. I recommend often that when you sit down to write a card, get into the moment. Become present and aware to that moment in time. Create an atmosphere. Whether that's lighting a candle, moving to a quiet space, sitting in the bright sun, making a cup of coffee or tea, do something that sets up the mood for reflection. Pretty much just like setting up for meditation or a yoga practice. It doesn't have to be perfect. Even if it's just a couple deep breaths to tell your brain you're starting something with intention, it's time to turn our attention inward. When you've done that, you've set yourself up for writing a really great message. Your note will convey the mindful reflection on the person you're sending it to, their role in your life, and the occasion or purpose behind it. Great job! You've just told someone they matter. All humor aside, that's really important! The world is starving for more of that.
That leads me to number four.
4. Receiving a card in the mail has a way of making us feel special and valued. That feeling is such a special gift to give someone. Sending a thoughtful card shows your investment in the relationship, fostering a deeper connection and creating lasting memories for both the sender and the recipient. That's going to strengthen the relational bond you have with that person.
It will leave a lasting impression. Which is my fifth reason.
5. In a digital era where communication is often fleeting and easily forgotten, a physical card can leave a lasting impression. When I create my greeting cards, I think about how I'm not just creating a card. I'm creating a meaningful keepsake. I love to recommend choosing either a blank card or a card with an inspirational quote on it so the person you're sending it to can slip it in a frame and keep it where they can see and enjoy it. Doing that step for them is also a great and easy gift idea. They can revisit it whenever they need a reminder of the sentiments you shared. Sometimes that may be in the middle of one of their sleepless nights, moments when they need an encouraging word, or when they need validation, or cheering up. You never know (unless they tell you) the power your words hold and how they can impact people over and over. Digital messages get lost, deleted, auto-erased, and we're not always online to support our friends when they need it (our bodies do need sleep) so by communicating in a tangible way, you're offering them 24/7 support on demand. That's the best kind of friend a person could ask for.
I think we'd all like to have that kind of lasting impact. When we pull over on the shoulder of the digital rat race and slow down, maybe put it in park for a minute, or maybe you're ready to just take the first exit and find the nearest park to get out and set up camp, we have created the opportunity to increase empathy, kindness, support, emotional well-being, connection, community, and self-awareness.
That's powerful stuff.
xoxo,
Aurie