Since lockdown has made me appreciate the simple things in life more, it as also made me truly appreciate nature. It’s beautiful, calming and doesn’t cost a penny. It’s also the one constant in our lives. The sun will rise, trees will blow in the wind, waves will crash on the rocks and the sun will set.
Everyone has different experiences of nature but my favourite ways to immerse myself is going to the park/woodland area, beach or climbing outdoors. It helps me take more time out and feel more relaxed, especially when WFH feels like it’s getting too much.
A break from indoors
I completely understand that it’s a privilege to work at home but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. It can be lonely and isolating with distractions you’d wouldn’t get in the office. I think there’s more risk of burnout too as the distinction between home and work doesn’t exist anymore.
Fortunately, I’ve learned to like WFH (after a long time disliking it!) but that’s only because it’s more flexible for me to get outdoors more often and exercise, the two things which improve my mood more than anything!
Beach therapy
I love going to the beach too, I live within walking distance of a few so that’s another thing I’ve been really grateful for. I know I’m biased but Swansea has some of the best beaches in the world.
As previously mentioned in my last post, one of my favourite things to do is go for a walk with a flask of tea and a listen to a podcast. It’s simple and something I would have taken for granted before the pandemic.
Occasionally, it’s nice to not take my phone at all! Sometimes, I find it overwhelming being constantly “available”. As much as I love company, I need to take time for myself. You can’t pour from an empty cup, as the saying goes!