The year 2020 has brought a lot of challenges for many of us and, in today's age of social media, we are constantly presented with images, news, and other information that can be energy- draining to say the least.
It is very easy and understandable to lose motivation and gratitude for the good things in our lives. To help find and maintain an appreciation for your life, here are some engaging activities you can try.
Journaling is a great way to reflect on what’s going on in your life, formulate ways to stay positive and relaxed and learn more about who you are. This gives you a central place to collect any and all of your thoughts that you may not feel comfortable sharing with others. This can be impromptu writing-- where you free-write into a journal about any subject-- or you can find prompts online that involve gratitude and use them as a starting point for your writing. For example; “what was something that made you smile today?” or “what did you look forward to when you woke up this morning?” You can find other prompts to jumpstart your journal here.
Whether it’s in the form of handwritten notes or letters, handmade artwork, or baked goods, the act of making things for the people in your life will not only make them feel good but also strengthen the bonds you have with them. Seeing their reaction to your gesture will remind you how much you are grateful to them for being there for you.
If you find yourself missing loved ones due to quarantine or other distance-related reasons, try hosting virtual activities to catch up with them. You can have painting sessions, make arts and crafts, or bake something together while on a video call. Virtual movie nights via Netflix Party-- recently updated to “TeleParty”-- is a great platform to host virtual movie nights with friends through Netflix, Disney plus, and Hulu and the host is the only one that needs an account for these streaming platforms. Although these give you a variety of options for activities, there’s nothing wrong with simply giving loved ones a call. Lookout for our next DIY class and invite your friends!
One of the many things that people tend to do is neglect themselves. We are our biggest critics so it can be challenging to appreciate ourselves a lot of the time. Taking the time to sit and do something that you enjoy can make all the difference in staying grateful for all the things you do. This can look like reading a book that you put off, watching a show or movie that you enjoy, mini at-home spa sessions, or taking a needed nap. Try to dedicate at least an hour each day or give yourself a “free day” each week dedicated to yourself.
When making time for yourself, one activity can include a meditation activity to ground yourself. Try sitting up or lying still in bed. Close your eyes and take deep, slow breaths. Think about the aspects of your life that you are grateful for, the parts of yourself that you love and appreciate, and some things that made you happy that day. Try to forgive yourself for any mistakes that you made as well and accept them as a part of learning. You can do this for about 15 minutes or more and maybe include music in the background. Be sure to read our self- meditation blog for more ways to practice meditation.
After doing these simple activities every once in a while, you may notice a change in your attitude and find yourself more hopeful in these trying times.
BY LOURRAIN SIMON