NPR

Many Look To Buddhism For Sanctuary From An Over-Connected World

Some users are turning to Buddhism and other religions to have a more mindful experience online. By being tethered to your devices, one monk says, "you will waste your whole precious time."
One recent <a href="https://www.emarketer.com/Article/eMarketer-Updates-US-Time-Spent-with-Media-Figures/1016587">study</a> estimated that Americans are spending nearly six hours a day on their connected devices. Add television to that and the total rises to nearly 10 hours.

On the floor of a Zen Buddhist worship space in an apartment building in Washington, D.C., about 15 people recently sat on meditation cushions. They chant sutras and meditate, in complete silence, for a full 30 minutes.

And then one of the lay leaders of the All Beings Zen Sangha, or congregation, conducted a "little exercise."

"It's very simple," said Mark Stone. "If you could take out your screens, stay on

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
What's Making Us Happy: A Guide To Your Weekend Viewing, Listening And Gaming
Each week, Pop Culture Happy Hour guests and hosts share what's bringing them joy. This week: The Wiz revival on Broadway, the podcast Koreaboo, and the game Balatro.
NPR1 min readAmerican Government
Man Who Set Himself On Fire Outside Trump Trial Dies Of Injuries, Police Say
The man took out pamphlets espousing conspiracy theories, tossed them around, then doused himself in an accelerant and set himself on fire outside the courthouse Friday, officials and witnesses said.
NPR2 min read
USC Cancels Filmmaker's Keynote Amid Controversy Over Canceled Valedictorian Speech
USC announced the cancellation of a keynote speech by filmmaker Jon M. Chu just days after making the choice to keep the student valedictorian, who expressed support for Palestinians, from speaking.

Related