The internet is a remarkable tool — one that connects, informs, and inspires. But like many good things, it requires moderation and discernment. As Catholics, we’re called to pursue holiness in every part of life, including our digital habits. “Internet self-care” isn’t just about mental breaks and screen limits; it’s about guarding our hearts (Proverbs 4:23) and keeping our eyes fixed on what is true, honorable, and pure (Philippians 4:8).
So how can we bring our faith into the way we engage online?
PRACTICE DIGITAL TEMPERANCE
Temperance isn’t just about food or drink — it’s about balance. The Church calls us to virtue in every area of life, including how we use technology.
Ask yourself:
- Do I spend more time scrolling than praying?
- Does my online time interfere with my vocation — whether that’s work, family, study, or ministry?
- Do I seek validation through likes, views, or comments?
Practical Step: Set intentional time limits. Use tools like screen time trackers or even a good old-fashioned alarm to limit your time online. Consider a “Sabbath” from the internet — perhaps one day a week where you log off completely.
GUARD YOUR HEART AND MIND
The internet can expose us to content that’s harmful: divisive arguments, impure images, or despairing worldviews. While we can’t control everything we see, we can control what we seek and how we respond.
Practical Step: Unfollow or mute accounts tempt you to unholy dispositions like wrath or envy. Choose to follow uplifting Catholic creators, spiritual writers, and communities that point you toward Christ.
REPLACE DOOMSCROLLING WITH DEVOTION
If you find yourself constantly checking the news or aimlessly scrolling to fill time or silence, consider replacing that habit with something spiritually nourishing.
Ideas:
- Listen to the Rosary instead of a podcast.
- Replace Instagram time with time in a spiritual book or Bible app.
- Follow accounts that post daily Scripture, saint quotes, or theological reflections.
Remember: every click and scroll can either bring you closer to peace or pull you deeper into anxiety. Choose peace.
PRACTICE PRESENCE
Jesus was fully present to the people in front of Him. We can follow His example by being present in our own relationships — both online and off.
Ask yourself:
- Am I missing real-life moments because I’m glued to a screen?
- Do I check my phone during prayer, meals, or conversations?
Practical Step: When you’re with people, be with them. Put the phone away. Consider designated “phone-free” zones in your home or times in your day where you’re unreachable — not out of neglect, but out of reverence.
OFFER IT UP
If social media, the news, or digital exhaustion is weighing on you, offer that suffering to God. Everything can be sanctified when united to Christ — even digital fatigue.
Use this little prayer:
“Lord, I offer You my distraction, my restlessness, my longing. Purify it and help me desire only You.”
The internet isn’t inherently bad — it’s a tool. But like any tool, it needs to be used wisely and with intention. Practicing internet self-care as a Catholic means more than just limiting screen time; it means choosing what leads to life, peace, and holiness.
Let us sanctify even our scrolling, and in all things, seek first the Kingdom of God.
