One of the most important things I do during the week is is knowing how to relax and reset. Recently I have been caught in the continuous trap of doom scrolling social media, and I am trying to step out of that habit.

Life can get pretty hectic at times and knowing how to unwind is the best thing for your mental and physical well being. And today I’ going to go over some of my favourite things to do anytime I have a day to myself, that doesn’t include my phone.

1. Reading

For me personally, there is no better way to escape reality than through a book. No matter what genre it may be, I almost always have something I am reading in my spare time. Whether you read something for just a couple of minutes, or set aside the entire day, it’s enough time for a momentary rest.

Whenever I delve into my newest reading obsession, I can lose myself for hours in each chapter. I’m able to focus on that current moment and what’s going on in the book. It’s the perfect time to forget any of my stressors and instead live out a wild adventure in someone else’s shoes.

Recently, my partner and I have started a project where we do a two person book club. We will take turns choosing books that the other person wouldn’t usually reach for and take notes. From there, when we have both finished, we go on a date and discuss everything noted down. This is a unique way we have broadened our reading horizons and engaged each other in our preferred writing styles.

2. Binge my favourite TV shows

I don’t know about you guys, but whenever I am in a funk, there’s nothing better than being able to sit and binge then entirety of Gilmore Girls. That series is my go to for any background watch. I will watch the entire series from start to finish at least once a year, and it will never get old for me.

Switching my brain off and focusing on the characters on the screen I have found to be an amazing destressor. Whenever I fully immerse myself in a cinematic universe, I will always have my trusty sat next to me, cuddled under a blanket as we go through the ups and downs of my favourite fictional characters lives.

But this doesn’t mean I never start anything new. Don’t get me wrong, the classics are always present, however, I am always open to new shows. Usually I will spend up to 30 minutes trying to decide, but there is a little spice mixed into each Gilmore Girls rewatch.

3. Crochet

Oh my goodness, am I a sucker for any old time activity.

Meet one of the reasons I might need a Gilmore Girls binge.

Crocheting for me is a creative outlet that allows me to full immerse myself in an activity that brings me joy. When I crochet, I focus on only the moment. From the use of each stitch, and yarn tension, each creative flourish of hook slowly builds a beautiful item.

While I have tried on many occasions to make clothes or blankets, I most enjoy making amigurmi and dolls. with adorable rabbits and dolls to enjoys at the end, it’s no wonder this is my prefered option.

4. Writing

Before my ultimate work burnout, writing was one of my loves. Whether it was an analytical piece, or a creative poem, I deeply enjoyed being able to express myself through the written word. It is only recently that I have been able to put the figurative pen back to paper and put my thoughts back into the world.

If you’re reading this blog post, you may have some inclination towards writing and understand the need to express yourself through every letter and sentence structure.

Writing is as much of an artform compared to painting or crochet. It’s a form of expression that allows the author to verbalise their thoughts and emotions, which is probably why I enjoy doing it in my down time.

5. Taking my dog for a walk

Watching the joy radiate from my little ones body as I put his harness on him is enough of a reason why this is one of my favourite things to do.

But, if I have enough time, I don’t just stop at taking him for a walk. Pending weather, time allowance and our general moods, I do my best to take him to some of his favourite places. These include the local equestrian club, beach and any sand pit he can get his paws on.

My dog lives only in the moment and is more than happy to tell me he is loving every second of his walks.

6. Having a long shower

I don’t know about the rest of you, but having a nice long shower after a grueling week is the absolute best thing you can do. I love nothing more than letting my thoughts wonder at the hot shower droplets run over my head. It helps cleanse not only my body, but my mind and spirit as well.

And while this has been one of my favourite things to do for a long time now, my routine has certainly advanced. Shower bombs are my new go to item, and if you have never experienced one before, then you need to. The scents mix in with the relaxing atmosphere and create a wonderful experience that everyone needs to try.

7. Playing board games and tabletop games

This is a relatively new activity I have added to my list. For a very long time, I couldn’t think of anything worse, but my partner is obsessed with them and over time he has worn me down.

These days I can give you a list of games that I thoroughly enjoy and will go out of my way to play. Spirit Island and Clank! are just a couple of our go to ones. Playing a part, building a deck or uncovering a mystery? I can’t think of a better use of my time!

8. Dates with my incredible partner

Every week my fiance and I will do our best to spend our weekends doing a little something together. Whether it’s watching a show, having dinner or going out for lunch, we will put time into our relationship and focus on just us.

More than anything, my partner is my best friend and we have been here for each other through thick and thin. So whether we schedule out a couple of hours, or the entire day, spending time with him is one of the best things I could possibly so with my down time.

9. Playing my violin

Like I said before, I am a sucker for any old timey activity and playing an instrument is one of my go tos. I only recently started learning how to play the violin, and the sense of accomplishment I feel whenever I perfect a note sequence is worth all the effort.

Recently I have added a piano to my instrument collection and I am slowly delving into arpeggios and chords. This is a skill I am more than glad to be developing and as an adult student, I can see the value of musical theory.

10. Sleeping

And this needs no further explanation.