Did you know the content you consume—whether it’s the news, books, podcasts, television, movies or social media—can significantly impact your thoughts, feelings, mood and actions? Dennis Buttimer, M.Ed, CEAP, RYT, CHC, a life and wellness coach at Cancer Wellness at Piedmont, explains how media affects our lives and how to make the best choices that support our well-being.

“Whenever we consume media, whether that’s TV, an advertisement or other forms of influence, we absorb that information energetically on a mental and physical level,” says Buttimer. “We’re greatly influenced by what we consume.”

That’s because our brains contain mirror neurons, which are brain cells that fire when you either perform an action or observe someone else perform that action. In other words, simply watching a violent scene in a movie can cause your brain and body to feel like that violence is happening to you. And likewise, consuming positive, uplifting content can lead to more joyful emotions.

That’s why, Buttimer says, it’s crucial to be intentional and mindful about what you listen to, watch and read.

“Our minds are powerful and can overcome so much,” he says. “But they’re also fragile and easily influenced.”

The good news is you can direct your mind by mindfully consuming content and purposefully choosing your thoughts.

Questions to ask before consuming content

Sometimes, consuming content can cause unintended negative consequences. For example, watching the news may leave you feeling angry, scared or hopeless. Or looking at certain social media influencers may lead to feelings of comparison and unworthiness.

However, it’s easy to get into a habit of watching the news each night or looking at certain accounts on Instagram without considering how they make you feel. Buttimer suggests asking yourself the following questions before scrolling through your favorite social media app, watching TV, reading or listening to a podcast:

• Is this content satisfying or unsatisfying for me to consume?

• How will I feel when I’m done watching/reading/listening to this?

• How is this content going to affect me?

• How much content am I consuming? Is it interfering with my life or ability to think critically and form my own opinions?  

• Am I giving my brain time to rest?

“Pay attention to what your emotions are telling you,” he says.

How to reduce content consumption

“As creative beings, it’s important that we take regular breaks from technology and media,” says Buttimer. “Being able to step away can increase your self-regulation and impulse control.”

He suggests starting your day without media consumption. Instead, enjoy quiet time to meditate, journal, pray or walk outside. This allows you to process your thoughts and feelings and self-direct your mind.

“You’re the creator of your destiny,” says Buttimer. “You get to choose no matter what’s being said or done in the media. You get to choose content that reflects your highest self, where you feel good as a result of taking care of your mind.”

Learn more ways to reduce stress and improve your well-being.