My Self-Rescue Plan: Tools I Use on Low Emotional Days
These are writing and creative hobbies
My Self-Rescue Plan: Tools I Use on Low Emotional Days
These are writing and creative hobbies
Photo by Tim Arterbury on Unsplash
A few weeks ago, I had lots of free time. The good part was that I got enough time to take a rest and slow down. But the downside was that I started feeling bored after a few days.
A few simple things came in handy to accompany me.
It may help you.
Tool 1: Pen & Paper First Aid
I have been writing a journal since I started living alone. There is no need for any elaborate arrangement: just a pen and paper or a mobile phone.
I write whatever comes to my mind when there is no clarity of thoughts. Surprisingly, after writing for 15–20 minutes, I feel lighter and more at ease. Also, I have observed that some golden words always emerge from the words I write.
Have you always wanted to write, but never known where to begin? Check my free ebook on writing.
Creative journaling has the same effect. I have a separate diary for it, which I fill in with different decorative craft papers and stickers. It is a simple hobby. I witnessed how I transformed a racing mind into something beautiful.
Check out this video to get an idea about a creative journal.
Tool 2: Hands-On Hobbies
Previously, I started scrolling through my mobile during boredom. I decided to change the habit and redirect the low feeling to offline hobbies.
I started a few creative hobbies I enjoyed during my childhood.
- Painting
- Embroidery
- Doodling
I am not an expert in any of them. The end product does matter. The process is my focus. It helps me slow my thoughts and create something beautiful to feel happy about.
Tool 3: Focus Games (like the wooden labyrinth)
Previously, I played online games on mobile to calm my nerves. But I realized it’s increasing dependency on the mobile screen. So, I have started using offline solo games to avoid overthinking.
Recently, I have purchased a wooden labyrinth. It is small and easy to carry anywhere. On my last vacation, when I was waiting at the airport, I spent some time with it to avoid boredom.
- Surprisingly, it hooked me to itself
- I did not feel the urge to check my phone
- Aimless social media scrolling did not consume me
I carry it everywhere I go.
Tool 4: Acceptance of the Bad Days
Lastly, I have learnt to feel the sadness. Feeling happy daily is an unrealistic expectation of myself.
So, when I feel low, I accept it wholeheartedly instead of fighting it. Being sad, I try many things to see what works to uplift my mind. Ever since I started living alone, I’ve picked up several new hobbies. I keep experimenting with them to see what aligns more to soothe my aching soul.
Whatever works, I double down on that.
Self-care is not about doing everything at once. It is about doing one small thing at a time.
These small activities have worked for me. A few of them might work for you.
Do you have any other things to add to the list?
If you want to write, here are a few other free ebooks to help in your writing journey.
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