Social media and cultural pressures can sometimes compel us to be more outgoing and social. However, it’s equally important to take time for yourself and we ask what can I do when I’m alone
Alone time can be extremely beneficial for your well-being.
Sometimes, it may seem like the only way to feel fulfilled and happy is to jam-pack your schedule with social events and meet a lot of people.
Undoubtedly, relationships are good for our emotional and mental health. A strong social network can boost our confidence, bring joy, improve our cognitive abilities and even help increase our life expectancy.
However, sometimes it’s good to take some time for ourselves from our busy social lives to rejuvenate, recharge and spend some alone time.
So, if you are wondering “what can I do when I’m alone?”, here are some fun activities you can consider.
What can I do when I’m alone: Catch a Movie at a Cinema Hall
Most of us go to the movies with family and friends. The very thought of going to the movies all alone can feel weird. However, if you wait for company to watch your favourite movie, you may miss out on watching a lot of fun movies.
At the same time, watching a movie by yourself can bring you a lot of pleasure. If you are wondering, “what can I do when I’m alone”, go watch a movie.
Spend Time with Some Non-Humans
Animals can make us feel connected and cared for instantly. Pets, especially cats and dogs, can help lower anxiety, stress, depression and loneliness.
If you are not yet ready to adopt a pet, you can always consider pet minding. Simply ask a friend or neighbour if you could walk their pet occasionally or visit them.
Another great idea is to visit a dog park. This way you also get to meet various like-minded people.
Don’t ask yourself “what can I do when I’m alone?” Just spend some quality time with some pets.
What can I do when I’m alone: Get Baking
Baking is therapy. Whether you are a seasoned baker or new to it, baking will help you make the most of your alone time. When you sift, mix and bake your favourite batch of cookies, you will certainly feel good.
The activity calls for your complete attention and when you get completely involved and find a rhythm, you are sure to experience a range of psychological benefits.
To spice things up, find a new recipe and get baking!
Visit a Museum
If you love the arts, there’s no better way to spend some time with yourself than exploring an exhibit or museum.
When you visit a museum in groups, you are likely to rush through the entire experience. However, if you are someone who likes staring at a painting for hours, the best way to do that is to go by yourself.
This will not only be a unique experience but this way you can take your time to take in the paintings and sculptures without any pressure to rush through.
Meditate
There are several different ways to meditate, but one form of meditation that offers scientifically proven benefits is mindfulness meditation. It is the practice that asks you to slow down your thoughts, let go of negative thoughts and emotions and calm your body and mind. In short, mindfulness meditation combines meditation and mindfulness.
Mindfulness meditation can help reduce anxiety, treat depression, reduce distractions, improve body satisfaction, improve immunity and better sleep.
Make an Entry in Your Journal
Writing about your thoughts and experiences can not only be therapeutic and improve overall well-being, but it gives you something meaningful to peruse years down the line. The physical process of penning your thoughts, emotions and perspective can be highly cathartic. Try it to believe it.
Finish a Puzzle
This is the perfect answer to the question: “What can I do when I’m alone?”
Whether you like to solve a riddle, crossword or jigsaw puzzle, it’s a great way to unwind and spend some alone time with yourself.
Solving a puzzle calls for your complete attention and focus.
When faced by a tangible challenge that demands your attention, you will be motivated to think out of the box. You will feel accomplished when the puzzle is finished.
