We used to “get away” in days when phones did not go with us, and we couldn’t plug in our iPads at Starbuck’s and motels and highway rest stops. Today, getting away requires discipline and planning. My husband and I sometimes take time off the grid. We go to the side of a mountain we know about which has no digital access. I am happy to report that we not only survive these digitless days but actually enjoy face-to-face conversations with each other.

Another discipline of mine is digitless Sundays. Okay, I cheat and play Free Cell and check news and my email once in the evening. But the relaxing day of ignorance is blissful, a time to get it together in slow motion. My husband I converse and sometimes take a walk. I read, think, and note ideas in long hand on my steno pad.

Current research suggests a harmful effect to the brain with too much use of digital media. I can understand, watching my stress level build while I wait impatiently for the latest weather report to come up or the email to delete so I can check the next one.

Consider roughing it on your next getaway. Leave the electronic stuff behind, or at least limit your access to it.