Having something fun and enjoyable to do during your downtime makes it all that much better, and also allows you to destress and unwind. However, many people get stuck in the loop of not doing anything at all, and not giving themselves the chance to unwind when they can.
Sometimes all that is needed to recalibrate is a change of routine. This can be in the form of rekindling an old hobby, taking up a new one or simply trying some new games. Here are some of the best ways to spend your downtime.
1. Write a Short Story
Many people tend to think that writing a story can be very difficult and time-consuming. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to writing short stories. Short stories have one huge advantage, they don’t require a lot of depth.
It is also a great idea to explore your creativity. Sitting down quietly outside or by the fire with a pen and paper, and just writing a few paragraphs of a short story, can be incredibly relaxing while at the same time making you feel a little productive.
You also don’t need to be gifted at writing. You can just have one character and one story arc, and it can be about absolutely anything. It is one of the few activities where you will feel like you have achieved something by doing barely anything.
2. Learn a Language
With apps like Duolingo being so popular and easy to use, learning a language, or at least part of one, has never been easier. The app allows you to choose how much you want to do each day, and therefore you don’t have to commit a ton of time to further your language skills. You can do as little as 10 minutes a day.
There are many languages to choose from, even more unique ones like Gaelic, Navajo and Klingon, you don’t even have to learn a language you might use, you can learn one that you are just interested in, or one you want to learn a few phrases in.
It is also, in a strange way, highly addictive. Once you get into it and you start picking up words and learning the spelling, you want to learn more and more. Next thing you know, you can understand and partially speak a language you knew nothing about a few weeks before.
3. Art
Art has to be one of the best ways to unwind. It is something that barely needs any supplies – a pencil or pen and some paper will suffice. And there are also absolutely no rules when it comes to art. You can draw, paint, sculpt or create quite literally whatever you choose.
Art is also very, very relaxing. By doing something as simple as doodling, or putting your mind to a piece that is more detailed, you are able to focus on something that is very calm and subdued, stress free, and there aren’t any deadlines or bosses to impress. You can just have fun with whatever you are doing.
4. Take up a Hobby
It is never too late to pick up a hobby, no matter what that hobby is. Reading, stamp collecting, hiking, whatever it may be, there are thousands of activities you can take up that require varying levels of time, can fit any budget, and have varying levels of effort involved.
On the other hand, you may want to use your downtime playing various games online. One such site, where you can play a variety of games is Borgata Online. Not only can you enjoy the free time, but you can also earn some money in the process.
Many people also put off starting a hobby they are very interested in because they feel like they don’t have the time. This is a mindset that isn’t needed, as you can put in as much or as little time as you have into a hobby, It will still move forward and you will still be a part of it.
5. Exercise
Exercise will always be one of the best ways to spend some of your off-time. It is obviously good for you, it makes you healthier, and there are also so many different options to help you get fit, there is something for everyone.
If you want something more relaxed, yoga is a brilliant option. You are able to unwind, stretch your muscles, build strength and get really fit without really noticing it. If you want to spend more time outdoors, running, walking or hiking is a great option. Hitting the gym is for you if you want to build muscle or take your exercise more seriously.
With the resources available online as well, you are able to take classes or lessons online, and from the comfort of your own home – as well as finding out which exercises are the best to reach certain goals, and which not to do. Once again, with the current pandemic and lockdowns, there is no better time than now to work out.
6. Explore
If you are living somewhere that does not have a strict lockdown in place, getting out and exploring your surroundings can be incredibly enjoyable and relaxing. Museums, parks, seeing a new part of town, or just going on a drive are all stress-free options for you.
Even something as simple as trying out a new restaurant for lunch or dinner on a Friday night is a way to break your routine, do something fun, and discover something new in the process. Go with friends, your partner or family. Either way, it is always good to get out and find something you didn’t know existed.
7. Declutter
On the surface, decluttering doesn’t sound like something that is fun and relaxing, but dig a little deeper and you will see that how you feel afterwards is the part you are working towards.
Decluttering your home or personal space has been proven to help clear your mind, make you more relaxed and make you more comfortable. While it does require time and effort, you will notice the benefits immediately once you are finished, and it is also something you only have to do now and then.
These are only a few options for you if you want a very fun way to spend your downtime. They all have varying levels of time and effort, and there is also most definitely something for everyone to enjoy.
