“Media Deprivation, a tool I first introduced in The Artist’s Way as “Reading Deprivation,” is a conscious unplugging. In the years since The Artist’s Way was published, I expanded the term to “Media Deprivation” to include the many devices and distractions now available to us on a constant basis.

Media Deprivation is one of the most resisted — and most productive — tools I teach.

It is just what it sounds like: no media. I ask my students to try this for a week. This means turning all devices off: no reading, no emailing, no texting, no surfing the Internet. No talk radio, no TV. And yes, I can feel the protests as I type this.

I know you need to check your email for work. And I always say that “I teach adults.” No, I am not asking you to quit your job or behave in a way that would get you fired. But I am asking you to try limiting the constant interruption of “inflow” as much as you possibly can. For one week. And if you cannot turn your devices completely off, you can certainly contain the access people have to you without being irresponsible. I am not asking you to be irresponsible to your work. I am asking you to be responsible to yourself.

When we are constantly interrupted, we lose our train of thought. When my students experiment with turning their devices off, they find that they are often flooded with ideas, even inspiration.

Media Deprivation casts us back onto ourselves, puts us in touch with our own thoughts and ideas, and often frees up a lot of time.

Try experimenting with this, and see what happens.”

– Julia Cameron, from “The Prosperous Heart”

1. Create a collage or vision board using magazine clippings or found objects.
2. Work on an unfinished project that you’ve been putting off.
3. Try a new art technique—something outside your usual medium.
4. Go for a walk or hike without listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
5. Cook or bake something new—engage with textures, smells, and tastes.
6. Dance or move freely—put on music and let your body lead.
7. Do yoga or stretch mindfully to release tension and improve focus.
8. Garden or care for plants—connect with nature in a hands-on way.
9. Take a day trip somewhere new—a park, museum, or nearby town.
10. Visit a thrift store or flea market.
11. Play an instrument or experiment with making sounds.
12. Make up a game or play a board game with a friend.
13. Build something with your hands—woodworking, clay, Legos, etc.
14. Call a friend or family member and have a long conversation.
15. Write letters or postcards to people you care about.
16. Join a community event—an open mic, art meetup, or volunteer activity.
17. People-watch in a café or park and take notes on what you observe.
18. Have a deep conversation with someone without distractions.
19. Meditate or practice breathwork to clear your mind.
20. Take a long bath with candles, music, or just silence.
21. Listen to instrumental music and let your mind wander.
22. Daydream intentionally—allow yourself to imagine freely.
23. Watch the sunrise or sunset without distraction.
24. Walk through a cemetery and find the oldest headstone.
25. Go to a playground and swing on the swings.
26. Go kayaking or paddle boarding at the Whitewater Center.
27. Get a group of friends together for Trivia Night at a bar/restaurant.

The goal is to shift from passive consumption to active engagement with the world. Removing external noise can help creative energy start to flow.