The quarantine can make even the most devoted bibliophile a little stir crazy. Most book lovers have no problem with staying home, curled up with a novel. However, there comes a point when everyone needs a little distraction from the stress of the current crises. Why not indulge in the simple pleasures of life?
- Turn Off the Electronics
With the nation mostly working and educating from home these days, there is a lot of screen time being logged. Why not give your eyes a break from the screen? Of course, reading is always a great choice. Reading expands–and in some cases, heals–the mind, develops imagination and creativity, and gives a broader perspective of the world. Another benefit of turning off electronics is the absence of social media. With so much negativity, hate, and argumentative attitudes exhibited on social media, is it a wonder people feel on edge and aggressive? Turn it all off. Without the negative input, peace, and a sense of emotional balance will be restored.
- Take Care Of Yourself
Because of staying home, there is more time to spend on self-care. Perhaps in the busyness of everyday life, you had no time to settle into a good routine for your skin. Now is an excellent time to give attention to your skin regimen. There are many relaxing skin treatments available for online purchase. A soothing mask could be exactly what your face is craving. Take pleasure in a skin routine that leaves your face glowing and feeling fresh and clean.
- Engage Your Senses
There is truth in the advice to stop and smell the roses. In life before quarantine, the hustle and bustle of routine prevented enjoyment provided in sensory details. Enjoying a cup of coffee while watching the sunrise is a satisfying start to the day. Instead of rushing out the door to work, take advantage of the opportunity to feel the coolness of the morning air. Listen to the early birds. No need to gulp down the coffee, but pay attention to each sip and how it tastes and warms the tongue. Sit in the sunshine to meditate. Feel the rays on your face and arms. Listen to your children laugh. Taste your supper instead of bolting it down because there are things to do for tomorrow. Use quarantine to develop the habit of engaging all your senses and appreciating each one.
- Enjoy Your Family
Years ago, during WWI and WWII, computers were not a part of life. Families had to hunker down and entertain themselves when there was nowhere to go. The ability to have face time with friends and family without electronic devices is a lost art. Take time each day to converse or play a game without cell phones at the ready. Not every text needs immediate attention. The time to build relationships is now. Develop the habit of playing together, talking with each other, eating a meal together. Making an effort during quarantine will increase in benefits after COVID-19. Need ideas for how to begin? Here are some basics:
- Do a puzzle together
- Play board games
- Play card games
- Do a home improvement project together
- Create A Quiet Space
Now that many homes are the hub of work and education, it can be challenging to compartmentalize duty and relaxation. There is no clear separation of workplace responsibilities and spaces to relax at home. It is recommended that you find an area that is solely for recreation. The space doesn’t have to be a separate room, though if your home affords that luxury, use it. It could be your favorite chair. A comfortable recliner in the living could be the spot that says work is completed for the day. Now, it’s time to unwind. Perhaps you have a special nook in your home where you can curl up with a favorite book. Wherever your favorite spot is located, be consistent in its use. Don’t drag your work into your reading spot. It will cause mental distraction and make it harder to settle down.
Simple pleasures during quarantine are as varied as each individual. The important thing to remember is finding joy in simple pleasures will make quarantine more relaxing.
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