This month’s blog topic is “My ‘go to’ activity when I want to relax and take time out of my real life.” The obvious answer is reading, but since most of the Genre-istas (and writers and readers in general) could say that, I’m going with my number two answer: physical activity.
I usually participate in a virtual yoga class twice a week. I discovered yoga several years ago. I started for the mental health benefits—it helps me stay centered and take a brain break now and then. But I also enjoy the physical advantage of keeping my strength and balance as I get older. Yoga is great because you can modify poses or do alternatives if your body doesn’t like to do certain things. (In my case, downward dogs bother my wrists, so I replace that part of class with other poses.) Each of us is different, and it’s good to listen to what your body is telling you.
I also like to walk when I need to get out of my thoughts and be in the moment. That usually means a walk around the neighborhood, or walking at the gym if the weather doesn’t accommodate that. Taking a walk helps me notice the world around me and think about something other than my troubles or whatever writing problem I’m stuck on. Looking at the sky, trees, and birds helps me get out of my head. The best times are when I can walk someplace more exciting, like on a trail or other beautiful place in Alaska. And my husband and I walk when we travel, too—we hiked in the Lake District and on the Hadrian’s Wall trail when we went to England last year.
Maybe you choose a different physical activity for yourself—no problem. But I do encourage you to find something that moves your body while helping you relax and take time out of your daily life. It’s one of many forms of self-care, which is super important in today’s world. You can’t help others if you aren’t taking care of yourself, too!
Hope you find the perfect “go-to activity” for you. And happy 2025!
Lynn Lovegreen has lived in Alaska for most of her life. After twenty years in the classroom, she retired to make more time for writing. She enjoys her friends and family, reading, and volunteering for her local library. Her young adult historical romance is set in Alaska, a great place for drama, romance, and independent characters. See her website at www.lynnlovegreen.com.
1 comment:
Great post, Lynn. I always found a walk around the block or neighborhood when I was stuck on what or how to write the next scene was just what I needed for the answer(s) to pop into my brain. And it is extremely important to keep moving as we age to reduce the risk of falls. the results of which can lead to major problems.
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