(Madisyn Taylor)
Throughout our lives, most of us are led to believe that relaxation is best pursued outside of the home. As a result, we spend months anticipating weeklong vacations, seldom fully appreciating the leisure time we are blessed with on a more regular basis. It is possible, however, to reexperience the same utterly relaxed state you slip into while on holiday within your home's walls. The feelings of serenity you enjoy during a vacation are a product of your outlook rather than your locale. You give yourself permission to enjoy yourself and unwind while on vacation. Granting yourself the same privilege while at home allows you to experience complete relaxation, even when surrounded by routine.
Our homes can be distracting places as most survival tasks are addressed there. Reviving the tranquillity felt on holiday is as easy as creating an atmosphere that helps you relax.
First, divest yourself of the notion that messes must be cleaned up immediately and reaffirm that relaxation is as vital as physical nourishment.
Then, set the mood. Music that reminds you of a beloved vacation destination can put you in a vacation mind-set. The exotic flavour of a tropical beverage or the spiciness a favourite ethnic dish can transport you to a more restful mental space.
Finally, put aside your projects and commit to doing only what you consider truly pleasurable.
Your responsibilities will wait as you put up your feet and revel in peacefulness that comes from within.
My Thoughts:
When we first moved to our house by the sea everyone thought I was mad for wanting to install windows in the study that could be fully opened. Now I have them done everyone instantly sees the logic. The view from the window is amazing. The panoramic vista of the full bay can be seen with the beautiful isle of Arran to the right and the coastline right down past Ayr to the left. In front is the sea with the various lighthouses and Paddy’s Milestone (Ailsa Craig bird sanctuary) in the distance.
As well as my desk, which I spend a huge amount of time at there is also a small two-seater table which can be moved right in front of the window. We love to sit there on nice evenings for meals and so often get lost in the tranquillity of it over meals and a few bottles of wine. We have better views than most of the restaurants around here and even in the winter with the window firmly shut and the heating on it is still the place we love to spend our time.
This is our downtime … our get-away-from everything place, whilst going nowhere.