Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Two forms of "entertainment"


Whoops. Took an accidental blogging hiatus again. 

I've been experimenting with time management and "relaxation." What are some ways to force yourself to unwind, without being slothful? How would you define "recreation"? Yes, blogging and/or journaling fall in there somewhere for me, but I've been exploring other genres as well...


In the time leading up to celebrating the Resurrection (AKA Lent), I found phrases like "no housework during naptime" floating around my head. Things that are fun like baking tend to only create MORE work. So what to do if I'm not allowed to use that time to get organized? What would be edifying?

I found myself doing some holiday crafts while watching a movie or two on Netflix. This made me keep my hands off my computer and cut down on the excess information flow a bit. It's hard to pick the right movie for the mood, but every once in a while I hit on an interesting documentary. It's definitely a step up from randomly browsing the internet. Just corresponding with people online is fun, but can be draining.

On the night before Easter Sunday (Holy Saturday), I found myself finishing up some preparations, while listening to some favorite hymns. I found it very soothing, and even cleansing. I would love to reclaim part of my day for doing something like that regularly. I think the problem is that I go from busy/hectic (while accompanied by a toddler) to mindless browsing, just to get away from it all. But there are ways to find a middle ground. Sometimes just putting on music while doing housework is enough to lift my mood, but I let little obstacles get in the way.

Late-night sign painting...



The other hobby I've been focusing on is...dun dun dun...genealogy research. It turns out it's quite fascinating and also addictive. I noticed that when I get right onto the ancestry sites in the evening, I'm less tempted to do other computer stuff. However, when I'm scanning lists of names for hours on end, I think it starts to have the numbing effect again, turning into something mindless. I lose track of time and discipline. I go to bed late feeling like I overdid it. Plus, my eyes start twitching. So while it's a fun activity, I wouldn't say that it's the most relaxing or the best thing to do before bed.


Edit: Stephanie pointed me towards another blog post that expresses exactly what I was trying to say, with some good ideas.




5 comments:

  1. You know, it's true - I think life with little ones at home can be so hectic or just consuming at times that when we do get a break it's tempting to just switch off completely, thus the mindless internet browsing! I've been realizing lately that while of course this is okay at times, it usually doesn't leave me refreshed or clear minded. It's so hard sometimes to be disciplined to choose wisely!

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  2. Exactly! The internet has always taken up lots of time, but before I could at least write long emails or a blog update. Now it seems like I don't always have the energy to write, but instead of doing something truly restful or having a prayer time, I just sit there scrolling.

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  3. Long response, somehow lost by technology.... So, I'll just say - I get it.

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  4. Came across this blog post yesterday and it made me think of your post: http://amotherfarfromhome.com/moms-unwind-refresh/ - some good thoughts :)

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