As summer approaches, most of us may be feeling some gloom about the uncertainty of taking vacations this summer. I’m sure most of you have read many articles on the most recent updates of Covid-19 so I thought it would be fitting to skip over all the anxiety provoking thoughts that the pandemic brings with it and focus on what we can do to uplift our spirits. Does anyone need a break but is feeling worried about the safety and logistics of going any where for your break? Here are some ideas.
Yes, a home -cation is a real thing during a pandemic. Even though some states are easing up on their travel restrictions, some of us may not be able to participate in this celebration of freedom as some may have vulnerable family members at home or a vulnerable child making us unable to participate, even though social distancing is still in place we may feel it’s just not safe and the risk of exposure is not worth it. Some may simply not feel ready or comfortable leaving the house yet, even if they’re not considered vulnerable and that is ok! We are all in the same storm, but we’re not all in the same boat. With that said, as this pandemic continues it is important to respect one another’s ideas and feelings around this. What is safe for you, may not be safe for your neighbor.
Travel is not really about your physical location, it’s about a mindset. Even indoors, we can accomplish this. Reminding yourself you are on vacation is key. Do not be tempted to hop on your computer and do work when you’re off. It is off limits.
Our houses have become offices, schools and daycares so it’s hard to ever have a hard stop. It is important to have discipline and when it’s time to stop. It takes a lot of physical energy for all that cognitive work.
Ideas for a home-cation:
Go outside.
If you are blessed with an outdoor space, please make good use of it. Take the day/s off from work and appreciate your home and backyard. You may feel guilty for not having it look ‘perfect’ but it’s still the same fresh air everyone is breathing. Nature has a good way of restoring our balance. Trees and plants are in bloom and even though the weather has not exactly cooperated it is still beneficial for you to be outdoors. Go for long walks and explore different parts of your neighborhood. The physical exercise will help boost your mood.
Eat like your on vacation
Home-cation is not the time for boring sandwiches and frozen meals. Splurge on your favorite restaurants. There is a good chance most of your favorite restaurants are now open for delivery or curbside pick up. And don’t forget your ice-cream for desert!
Get a good nights sleep
How many times have we told ourselves we are going to bed early but that never happens? Well home-cation is the perfect opportunity to do it. You can finally sleep in. Parents with young kids may not be able to do this but it’s the mindset that counts! Knowing you don’t have to get up and immediately jump on that zoom call is already mind liberating. Take it easy in the morning and lounge in your favorite pjs while eating your favorite breakfast from your favorite restaurant.
Camp in your back yard
Yes, you can do this. If you don’t have a tent, this would be a good time to invest in one. You will probably use it more than if you actually went camping. Camping in your back yard can be a sort of glamping. You have free access to food and a clean bathroom but you get to sleep amidst the sound of nature and breathe clean, fresh air without the worry of a wild animal attacking you. Catch up on your favorite movies and shows al-fresco.
Get an inflatable pool
Are you feeling bummed that your local pool may not open this summer? Me too. Invest in a big (or small) inflatable pool and set it up in your back yard. Countless hours of fun in the water? Accomplished.
Happy home-cation! Stay safe!