In our everyday lives, we are always on. And we are constantly dialed into our tech devices – scrolling through social media, listening to podcasts, checking emails, reading the news, watching our favorite shows. ME TOO!! It is so easy to lose yourself. With intention and a little planning, making time for you can be incredible.
On Sunday, my family and I spent the day at Green Woodlands XC skiing. I decided to go back the next morning for some solitude and additional practice (since XC skiing with my 6 year old was at a pretty slow pace). The location was remote, beautiful and I was all alone. I am a novice XC skier and yesterday was really my first time out with gear that fit me correctly. I fell 4 times and going downhill on XC skies is not at all similar to downhill skiing, which is what I am used to. It was hard! I had to focus on my form, trying different movements to figure out how to turn and stop without edges.
I was deeply grateful to be in solitude, surrounded by natural beauty, and challenging myself as I learn a new skill – all at the same time. There are great health benefits to each of these separately and when combined together, WOW!
Creating solitude, whether that is for 5-10 minutes, a morning, or a full day can:
- Boost creativity: Solitude can provide a space for creative thinking and inspiration, as it allows you to focus on your own thoughts and ideas without distraction. Research shows that taking breaks from social interactions and technology can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities.
- Reduce stress: Spending time alone and being in nature both help to reduce stress and anxiety. When we’re constantly connected to others and bombarded with information and stimuli, our nervous systems can become overloaded and overwhelmed. Taking time to be alone and quiet can provide a sense of calm and relaxation, allowing the body and mind to recharge.
- Enhance self-awareness: Solitude can also provide an opportunity for self-reflection and introspection, helping to increase self-awareness and understanding. When we’re alone with our thoughts and feelings, we can more easily identify patterns and behaviors that may be holding us back or causing us stress.
- Improve emotional wellbeing: Spending time alone or in nature can also improve emotional wellbeing, as it provides a space for self-care and self-compassion.
Now add learning a new skill, which is vital for healthy aging and can:
- Boost brain health: Learning a new skill requires your brain to form new neural connections and pathways, which can improve cognitive function and memory. This can also help prevent age-related cognitive decline and dementia.
- Increases confidence and self-esteem: Learning a new skill can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your confidence and self-esteem. This can have positive ripple effects in other areas of your life, improving your overall well-being. (I am not quite there yet with XC skiing 🙂)
- Provides a sense of purpose: Developing a new skill can give you a sense of purpose and direction, helping you feel more fulfilled and engaged in life. This is especially beneficial for those who are experiencing a life transition.
- Increase mindfulness. When you are learning a new skill, you are focused, present, and mindful.
Here is your permission to focus on yourself – get out in nature, be alone, and maybe even learn a new skill today!
love & light
Donelle