Modern living is all about a mechanical life and moving from one task to another. In such a hustle bustle and the race to do more in little time leaves us exhausted and tired most of the time. Even if you want to do something relaxing or want to refresh yourself, you find it really difficult because of the financial pressure and many suggested activities are usually really heavy on the pocket as well. So, even if you take some time out for yourself, the dilemma is what to do in that free time. Well, no need to fret and stress yourself out. Listed below are a few activities that are not only refreshing, you can afford them easily too and restore all your lost energy.
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Reading
Think about the time in the past. The most favourite activity of most of the people was story telling which then moved on to reading. Reading is one of the best things that you can do in your free time. It requires no charging and you can carry a book anywhere. So, revisit some favourite characters, get in touch with a library or borrow one from friend if you prefer paper to digital versions. If you are comfortable reading books online, then you can also visit sites like Readanybook for a free book.
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Crafting/Painting/Colouring
Another activity that won’t cost you much is your favourite childhood pastime – drawing, colouring, painting or crafting. You only need a paper, few pencils and colours and Voila! You are good to go. Even if you are not good at drawing, there are many printable drawings available even for adults. You can simply pick up a few crayons and soothe your overworked brain with this relaxing activity.
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Cooking/Baking
My personal favourite after reading is cooking. Concocting up new recipes or trying the untried ones really relaxes me after a long hard day at work. In fact some people find cooking and baking activities to be really cathartic and therapeutic. However, the main idea is to not let it burden your pockets. Stick to the ingredients available in your kitchen and pantry to keep the whole activity more creative and budget-friendly. Hit YouTube or download Supercook for some great ideas.
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Physical Activity
You don’t have to be a fitness freak to get engaged in physical activity. A leisurely stroll, a brisk walk or dancing to your favourite tune can boost up your energy level and relax your stressed mind too. Indulge yourself in a quick cardio or the soothing meditation through yoga to bring your mind at peace and help relieve the toxins from your body as well.
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Complete Projects
Another way to restore your energy is to finish up the incomplete projects that are constantly at the back of your mind. It can be anything – a writing piece that you left for later, some embroidery or that carpentry project that you started but never finished. Getting these things done will not only de-clutter your space, it will also help you experience the euphoric feeling you get when you achieve something.
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Chat with Loved Ones
Chat with loved ones but not over a messaging app. Call a family member or a friend the old-fashioned way by actually picking up the phone and call them. The biggest drawback of our technology influenced life is that we have forgotten to actually listen and talk to people. The best people to call are your parents or even better, your grandparents. The old folks will be really happy to hear your voice and you will be surrounded with lots of love.
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Pamper Yourself
Whenever we think of pampering ourselves, luxury spas and other such places come to the mind, right? Well, it is because the media and all those images online have conditioned us to think that way. There is absolutely no need for you to step out from the comfort of your home, in fact you don’t even need to leave your bedroom for a lovely, comforting pampering session. You can simply take a hot shower or bath and then include a daily moisturizing routine using your favourite moisturiser. If nothing else, simply dip your feet in hot water with a few flower petals and a few drops of essential oil to relax not only your tired body but mind too. Play some soothing favourite tunes in the background. You can also go through a DIY cleansing routine using simple ingredients from your kitchen and refrigerator.
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Revamp Your Wardrobe
Now this activity is suitable for any age and gender. It is fun and you won’t even have to spend a single penny. Recall your childhood! Ever played superheroes, princesses and knights in the shining armour or soldiers, doctors etc? How did you dress up? Of course, by raiding your own, your siblings’ and your parents’ closets, right. Take this game up a notch. Mix and match different items from your closet. Dig in and take out that forgotten shirt/t shirt and pair it with your ripped jeans or any other item. The stage is yours to conquer and the best part is that you will end up with a number of new outfits.
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Heal Yourself with Music
Music definitely heals and there is no doubt about it. One of the best things about internet is that it has made it so much easier to access a variety of music for free (not advocating piracy here). Let music heal you and boost your mood. One of the best ideas is to revisit old gems and compile your own favourites, varying according to your moods.
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Spend Time with Yourself
It may sound clichéd but you can’t pour from an empty cup. So, it is important to spend some time with yourself. Visit nature, go to a park or sit on the beach in solitude and reflect upon your life, your dreams and your goals. This date with yourself will allow to cleanse yourself mentally and spiritually. You will realise that many problems and stressful situations in your life do not seem so overwhelming anymore.
