Disconnecting to Reconnect: The Effects of Not Having Constant Internet Access
By 2025 apprentice
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned from living at Rancho Mastatal as an apprentice is just how out of balance my relationship with technology has been. I can only speak from my own experience, but this realization seems to be a common theme among those who spend time at the ranch. The physical separation of internet access from our daily living and work spaces significantly shifts the way we engage with technology.
Technology and Internet Access in Modern SocietY
In almost every modern city or suburb, 24/7 internet access isn’t just available, but it’s expected. It’s seen as a basic necessity, woven into nearly every part of daily life. To be fair, constant connection is essential for many people, especially for work, safety, and communication. It’s also an incredible tool when used intentionally, but I believe there’s a lot to be gained by taking a step back and re-evaluating our relationship with it.
Technology and Internet in MastataL
In the small town of Mastatal, Costa Rica, the fastest connection you’ll find without a Starlink setup is 3G and that is spotty all across town. On the ranch, there is pretty much no service anywhere on the property. The only place with reliable high-speed internet is the local Internet café, powered by Starlink.
At first, this felt like a major adjustment, but now I see it as a privilege. The extra effort it takes to get online has completely reshaped how I use the internet. Instead of mindlessly reaching for my phone, I have to be intentional and ask myself “Why am I going online? What do I actually need to do?” That mental shift has reframed the internet from something that constantly pulls at my attention, back to a powerful tool when used consciously.
The Effects on People and Community
This disconnection from constant access has a deeply positive impact on how people interact. In communal spaces, it’s incredibly rare and refreshing to see people gather without anyone distracted by their phones. Conversations flow more freely and everyone feels more present. It creates a sense of connection that feels increasingly rare in our world.
I feel incredibly grateful to have experienced and contributed to a space like this. It reminds me how much we benefit from environments that foster real, undistracted human connection. I think creating and protecting spaces like this is something we could all benefit from.
