The slow media movement: detoxing the digital overstimulation
reframing how we consume content. before you panic—no, this isn’t about quitting social media, deleting all your apps, or moving to a remote cabin to read by candlelight
I came across this blog post by Becca Law the other day that immediately had me in thought daughter mode (highly recommend you give it a read, then come back). It was all about the way we consume media and how our brains are constantly overstimulated from endless scrolling, notifications, and content overload (and ain’t that the truth). It hit a little too close to home as I was reading that post to end my 2am doomscroll.
Be real… how often do we actually feel good after an hour (or 3) of scrolling? Do we close tiktok feeling refreshed and inspired, or do we suddenly need a nap, a snack, and a new personality?
As much as I hate how we as a society are drowning in overconsumption in every way, I truly believe that social media has it’s place, but requires balance and a boundaries.
That’s where the Slow Media Movement comes in. And before you panic—no, this isn’t about quitting social media, deleting all your apps, or moving to a remote cabin to read by candlelight (unless that’s your vibe, in which case, I fully support you).
This is about reframing how we consume content, not as a mindless habit, but as a high value, nourishing experience. It’s about choosing content that fuels us instead of drains us, and following through with boundaries that make our digital lives feel good again.
So, if you’ve been feeling overstimulated, unfocused, or just plain exhausted from the digital noise, let’s talk about how to elevate your media consumption, without giving it all up.
what is the slow media movement?
Think of it like a shift toward a digital soft life. Instead of consuming whatever’s shoved in front of you—scrolling out of boredom, watching random TikToks that leave you with no new thoughts—you become intentional with your digital space.
It’s about:
Curating what you consume instead of letting the algorithm decide for you
Prioritizing depth over speed. Choosing content that adds real value to your life
Breaking the cycle of overstimulation so your brain can actually breathe
And here’s the thing…We don’t need more content. We need better content. The kind that inspires us, makes us think, and actually leaves us feeling good instead of mentally cluttered.
change your digital diet
Here’s the good news…You don’t have to give up social media. Remember I mentioned boundaries just now? Here’s how you can set them to elevate your digital experience.
1. Curating a high vibe digital home
Start being more self-aware and ask yourself:
“Is this exhausting me or helping me expand?” “Does this truly have value I can take from?”
We forget that what we consume online is also part of our environment. Don’t be afraid to unfollow, mute, or block anything that leaves you feeling drained, insecure, or overwhelmed.
The memes and entertainment content will always be there, so intentionally follow the creators who let their authenticity shine and genuinely inspire & uplift you.
This is like feng shui for your digital space. Out with the brain rot, in with the good stuff.
✨ Save high value content: Save long form content (articles, deep-dive videos, podcasts) for when you actually have the time & space to enjoy them. I love doing this when I want to expand my personal development or learn about a new topics. This turns content consumption into a chic, enriching experience instead of a mindless habit.
2. Create more than you consume
I’ve seen this time and time again, but it couldn’t be more true: You don’t have to be a content creator to create.
✨ Journaling, voice-noting your thoughts, making mood boards, taking photos just for you—all of these are creative expressions that shift you from passive consumption to active engagement with your own mind.
You don’t need to post it. You don’t need to share it. Just create for the sake of creation.
3. Embrace digital minimalism
If going full minimalist feels too much, start small:
Turn off non-essential notifications.
Set time limits on social media—and actually stick to them.
Batch-check messages & emails instead of responding instantly.
Regularly declutter your digital space.
Less chaos = more clarity.
Sometimes you need to rest. Sometimes… the rest of the world can wait.
4. The art of being bored
The digital world has its place, but that doesn’t mean it should be our entire world.
It’s not normal to be online 24/7. As much as we can balance it, it’s just as important to take breaks from it. Whether it’s a daily time limit or a scheduled break, you need time away from social media.
✨ Get creative. Use your imagination.
✨ Learn something new.
✨ Start a hobby.
✨ Sit in silence. Observe the world around you.
✨ READ A BOOK.
Remember your energy is precious, so make sure everything you consume is worthy of it.
What’s one way you can embrace slow media today? Drop a comment below or DM me. I’d love to hear how you’re curating a digital space that truly serves you! ✨
Stay hot❤️🔥,
Robin
The Elevated It Girl
📸 insta + tiktok: @elevateditgirl
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Love this Robin. I’ve recently been trying to ask myself ‘did I find this useful or inspiring’ when scrolling through TikTok and Instagram and if the answer is no then I unfollow! It truly has helped me create a healthier digital environment.
i love this post! i look forward to your newsletter!!. also the thing about saving long form content is so true. i always save my fav substack posts and read them throughout the post. ive seen a lot of posts about not knowing what to do without your phone. ill probably write a post about it and credit you for giving me the idea!