The Dance Between Technology and Presence

Written by Brendan Holland

In a world where technology is at our fingertips every second of the day, I find myself in a constant dance between balancing the benefits of modern advancements with the desire to stay present in the moments that truly matter. As a father, husband, and breathwork facilitator, this balance is a delicate one, often challenging but ultimately rewarding.

Technology has no doubt changed the way I live and work. It’s the bridge that allows me to connect with clients across the globe, guiding them through breathwork sessions that bring healing and transformation into their lives. Through the screen, I can hold space for someone thousands of miles away, watching their faces soften as they release tension, their bodies relax into the present moment. It’s a gift, this ability to connect, to share knowledge, and to build a community that transcends physical boundaries.

Yet, with this gift comes the responsibility to not let technology dominate every aspect of life. Living a semi-nomadic life in a caravan with my family, we often find ourselves in places where the signal is weak, where the pull of the digital world is replaced by the sounds of nature and the laughter of my children. In these moments, I’m reminded of the importance of disconnecting to reconnect… with myself, with my family, and with the world around me.

As a father, I see the pull that technology holds for children. The lights, the sounds, the “fun” that captures their attention. We have very little screen time in our family, mainly a rainy-day movie or for some learning games. When our kids use technology it’s important to teach them balance, to show them the value of using it for its intended purpose and then putting down the device and picking up a book, a tool, or simply engaging in a conversation. It’s in these interactions that the real magic of life and connection happens, the kind that can’t be replicated by any app or game.

In my service, I strive to blend the old with the new. Technology allows me to reach more people, to share the benefits of breathwork with those who may never have discovered it otherwise. But it’s the breath itself, the most ancient of practices, that remains at the core. No matter how advanced our tools become, the power of simply breathing, of being fully present, remains unchanged.

So, I continue to dance this dance, embracing the benefits of technology while ensuring it doesn’t overshadow the things that matter most. It’s a journey, one of constant adjustment and awareness, but one that I’m committed to for the sake of my family, my work, and my own sense of peace.