Simple pleasures of life

How do you spend your leisure time in general? Do you constructively engage yourself? Most of us love spending hours scrolling through our mobile phones. We constantly chat, post updates, and endlessly use social media. With the advancement of new technologies, we are so occupied with our mobile phones that we don’t realize how it’s affecting us. Social networking is imperative for multiple purposes, effective communication, entertainment, sharing information, and many others. However, it is not always as beneficial or enlightening as we expect. Therefore, individuals can reduce their screen time by setting time limits and engaging in some productive tasks. More fulfilling use of leisure time is encouraged when it is balanced with efficiency. Following are the possible activities where we can engage ourselves.

Explore new places

We all have our go-to spots where we enjoy spending time. Have you thought of any other hidden gems waiting to be discovered? Exploring something new can be interesting. You may uncover local cafes, stores, and historical buildings that are not well known for a unique experience. Behind every discovery, there is a story. Maybe it can bring unexpected and lasting memories. Exposure to different cultures, traditions, and lifestyles can help you break the monotony of your daily routine and provide exciting experiences. Spending time exploring new locations is worthwhile. It refreshes you like nothing else, whether you drive or hike, alone or with friends. Embrace the unknown and be surprised by what lies just beyond your usual path.

Donate unwanted items

Donating unwanted items or selling them can lead to a more calm and balanced state of mind. There may be lots of unused items or clothes that you probably don’t need anymore. You can make space for new items by getting rid of old ones. Simply donating or selling unwanted items at a thrift store can benefit people who find it difficult to afford new ones. This act of giving can bring you a sense of happiness and satisfaction, knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life. Moreover, you’ll improve your well-being through generosity and decluttering.

Develop reading habits

Reading can be a relaxing activity that reduces stress levels and promotes mental well-being. They take you to different worlds, entertain you, and give you a break from your daily routine. Moreover, you will be exposed to diverse vocabulary and writing styles that stimulate creativity and imaginative thinking. Reading different types of books contributes to the development of emotional well-being, and better understanding of the world.

Grow a variety of plants

Growing a variety of plants refreshes you like nothing else. Whether indoor or outdoor plants, they nourish both the mind and the body. You will connect with nature and learn about different species of plants, their growing requirements, and how they interact with the environment. Planning and designing your garden and arranging them can inspire your creativity and create a more visually appealing environment. Furthermore, watching your plants grow brings you joy and satisfaction. Nurturing plants can be soothing and promotes mindfulness reducing stress.

Try various cuisines

Trying different cuisines isn’t simply about tasting new food. It is about appreciating culinary creativity and cultures. Through exploring a variety of cuisines you learn about different flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. The experience will be unforgettable, and it is a great way to learn about various cultures and traditions.

Volunteering

Regular volunteering means collaborating with others to achieve a common goal. Engaging yourself in meaningful volunteering activities provides you with a feeling of satisfaction and breaks your routine of daily life by offering a change of scenery and activities compared to your typical job. It brings new ideas to you and helps you acquire many skills that will be useful in different areas of life. You learn to work in a group and develop leadership skills such as time management and communication skills.

In conclusion, spending leisure time effectively is pivotal for the holistic development of young people. Engaging yourself in such activities can help you develop social skills, and improve your physical health as well as mental well-being.

Kenisha Adhikari

SEE Batch 2023/24

St Xavier’s School, Jawalakhel