Ways to Recharge That Doesn't Require Staying Home
Welcome to the Introvert’s Bubble Podcast! Today is fun episode for me because I got out of my work comfort zone: I recorded this podcast outside! The truth is that it’s just too beautiful to be stuck inside, which is actually the point of today’s discussion. So if you hear some birds chirping and the breeze blowing, don’t be alarmed -- it will only set the tone for the topic at hand.
As much as I am enjoying myself right now, how easy is it sometimes to just lounge around, inside, doing nothing? The sun could be shining, with butterflies and rainbows, but up against the beckoning of Netflix or seduction of a new book?
Man, the struggle is real.
I love the idea of sitting alone, binge watching TV and enjoying the comfort of my own home. Who doesn’t? Yes, it can be fun and relaxing, but being a couch potato is not good for our body, mind and overall wellbeing. So today, I want to tell you about the one thing that gets me out of that funk:
Going for a walk.
It’s that simple! Not only are you engaging your body, but you are changing your environment to stimulate your mind. Sound boring? Well, here are some examples of how you can diversify this easy, but effective, activity:
Visit a Park
Going for a walk with my dog in the park is one of my all-time favorite things to do. And even if you don’t have a dog, find a friend who does, and ask if you can take them out for a meander to the local doggie hang-out.
Go Mall-Walking
If you are from somewhere where it gets cold often -- ahem, Minnesota -- local malls are a great choice for stretching your legs (but hopefully not your wallet!). The malls here even give you markers to show how far you have gone, and your progress as you stroll along. If you are worried about salesy employees, just avert your eyes, put your head down and count your steps. They usually does the trick!
Go to a Playgrounds
Ok, maybe you don’t have any kids to put in a stroller and roll down the street. But I am sure you have a friend who is a mom, and I am also sure she would love some help with Johnny and Suzie! Or better yet, invite her out with the kids. She will be forever grateful to have someone to talk to, other than her 2 year old twins who like to eat sand and throw rocks at passerby’s.
Try Shinrin-Yoku
This is a Japanese term for the act of “forest bathing”, or forest therapy. It nurtures the idea of mindfulness, and being present in nature using all five senses. Being outside, even if it is just in your neighborhood, is healing for the mind, body and soul, so why not give it a go? I have been engaging in the shinrin-yoku practice for quite some time and I highly suggest trying it out. If you do, let me know how it goes!
My one caution that goes along with this podcast is to be careful if you want to use your iPod and earbuds. I know that a lot of people love to get lost in music as they walk, but keep in mind that it is better to 1) Stay alert so you don’t step into danger (speaking from Minnesota experience…the words “bear” and “moose” come to mind), and 2) Focus on the peacefulness of your surroundings.
Listen. Any movement is better than no movement. I’m not saying go find a national park and trudge through it for 48 hours straight. I am saying get up and get out. We are not meant to be stuck inside, sitting all the live-long day. With this podcast, I want to inspire you to enrich your life in the smallest of ways. So even if it is a few times a week, breathe the fresh air, hear what’s around you and see how it improves the quality of your life.