The year that was has been a real challenge for most of us, and although there is now light at the end of the tunnel, many people are still finding it difficult to relax.

We have all been stressed, and rightly so, and being stuck at home with nothing much to do but work, eat, and clean can be a pretty boring affair. But if you are feeling a bit overwhelmed within those four walls, there are still things you can do that will benefit you mentally – and it doesn’t have to be too complex or problematic, either. So what can you do to better yourself mentally while spending more time at home? Here’s your best list.  

• Read 

It may be obvious, but ask yourself this: when was the last time you actually sat down and read something good? We’re not talking about a magazine or newspaper or scrolling through your social media accounts – we’re referring to an actual book with a great story that allows you to escape to another world. The merits of reading a book are known universally, yet so many of us have neglected these merits – so why not start now? If you’re thinking of what you can read, try searching online for recommended book lists; we’d start with a list of classic novels which people have enjoyed for years, even centuries. 

• Start a journal 

Starting a journal is related to reading, in a way, but if you’ve never had a diary or your last one was way back in high school, now’s the perfect time to start (or re-start). The mere act of writing in a diary or journal is relaxing and reduces stress, and it’s a brilliant way to get a better perspective on an issue or problem. In addition, by writing in a journal, you can effectively release your concerns, ideas, feelings, and emotions so they don’t have to stay repressed inside you. 

• Play an easy game or two  

It may also be the ideal time to unleash your love for gaming – and if you’ve spent many hours playing games as a child, then you know exactly what we mean. For example, you can play a board game with your loved ones, or if you are flying solo, you can play a nice and easy online game like those casino games that are so popular nowadays (you may even win a prize or two!). Look for the best online casino in Canada, and you can’t go wrong if you choose a popular and trustworthy site. Moreover, playing a game helps you de-stress since you’re concentrating on another thing that’s entirely different from your work or home concerns, and it can definitely put you in an excellent mood if you win. 

• Listen to your favorite tunes 

If you’re finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate, you may need to rejuvenate yourself and recharge – and what better way to do it than by listening to your favorite tunes? So bring out your playlist and spend an hour or two getting lost in the music you love – and if you want something more relaxing, try looking for relaxation or meditation songs online. Listening to music can lower your heart and pulse rate and reduce your stress hormone levels.  For the Silo, Diane Hutton. 

Feature image: Pixabay.com