Self-Care Series: The Blessing of Solitude

Originally published: March 12, 2020

Once in a while, things come up that remind us to pause, slow down and spend some time with ourselves.  The world is a busy, fast-moving place and the expectation to always be out and about can wipe us of our precious energy.  There are many instances where socializing and being with others can lift our spirits, such as a friend’s birthday party, a concert, or a date at the movies.  Personally, talking, laughing, and connecting with the people I love is a big joy in my life, and I’m sure a lot of others can relate.  There is, however, something special that many of us may take for granted.  Perhaps some may even despise this thing and try to avoid it at all costs – alone time. 

Alone time is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.  It is a true step in the self-care process that eventually leads to a better relationship with others. 

With all the talk lately about social distancing, there may be some negative feelings towards shutting yourself up in isolation and hiding from the world for some time, but let’s try to change our perspective!  If we make the shift to the positive side of the situation, this could be used as a time to accomplish so much. 

Wherever you go, there you are.

Schools where I live have decided to close for an additional two weeks after the annual March Break due to the pandemic.  That is three weeks of solitude from friends, students, colleagues, and even family, in some cases.  It is definitely a trying time, especially for those who may identify as extroverts and social butterflies.  Even myself, who would lean more towards introversion, can feel this will be a challenge.

As the world seems to be a more confusing place than ever, it is important to look inward and get to know ourselves better, so when we reemerge, we can go forth with confidence in ourselves and share this light with others.

A good remedy to the chaos we are facing is to use this time to enjoy our own company for once.  Rather than asking others to fulfill ours needs and desires, spending time alone may actually prove to be a blessing and more than just a way to keep immunity strong.  This is a slow down period for everyone.  It is a chance to rethink what we have been doing and it truly is forcing people to reevaluate the way they live their daily lives. 

This too shall pass.

 If spending alone time makes you feel uncomfortable, bored, restless, and anxious or down, it may be good to ask yourself why.  What do you need in these moments to feel comfortable being with yourself?  Try a few of the suggestions below to help cope with staying in and make use of the rare quietness.

I also have included a few ways to stay connected with others during this social distancing movement because although I really value alone time, when the world is going through catastrophic events, it is important to stick together- even if we have to do it from miles apart.  That is a beautiful balance to have.

Alone Time

• Make a to-do list of things you’ve always wanted to accomplish

• Try out new recipes

• Make art

• Bake something

• Organize and clean your space

• Rearrange your room

• Watch funny shows/movies

• Pamper yourself (This could mean a bath, a facial, do your nails, anything to make yourself feel good!)

• Journal/Write

• Read a book

• Go for a short walk (A bit of fresh air early in the morning is really wonderful!)

• Meditate

• Learn a language

Staying Connected with Social Distancing

• Phone a loved one or friend

• FaceTime or Skype (It really feels like they are with you and we are so lucky to have this technology.)

• Start a group chat with your friends and share funny content

• Write a pass-along story (Start a story, pass it to a friend to continue, then go back and forth until you are done.)

• Avoid negative online content or anything that creates fear or anxiety

• Practice good hygiene, especially if you are in close proximity to people or there are others living with you.

• Smile, wave, or verbally greet others, even people you may not know (You always have the potential to brighten someone’s day.)

I’d love to hear your comments about how alone-time work for you, as well as any other tips that may benefit all during this intense period.  The world has seen so much and we will get through this with grace and strength.  Just remember, even if you take some alone time, you are never really alone!

Baci e abbracci :)

Basha