That old saying, the one that goes something like, "You Have to Love Yourself Before You Can Love Someone Else," is still tried-and-true to this day. It's time to discover some of the many advantages of spending time alone. Despite what people may think, being alone isn't weird or sad, it's actually quite healthy. There are many physical and psychological benefits to spending time alone. For one, it is an opportunity to rejuvenate your mind and body at the same time. In some cases, solitude can increase productivity and spark creativity, experts say.
Here are some top reasons why you should spend some time solo:
You can recoup and recharge
In a world of constant contact, it's nice to just get away for a while and take a break from the outside world. Some simple ways to recharge alone could be to read your favorite book or to enjoy your favorite TV show or movie.
You can become more productive
Have you been meaning to do some spring cleaning or listen to that empowering podcast you just downloaded? When you remove as many distractions and interruptions as you can from your day, you are able to better concentrate on individual tasks more efficiently. It's also beneficial to wake up early! Rise an hour earlier than everyone else in your house and use that time to meditate or workout. Make yourself a healthy brain-fueled breakfast, check up on news and emails, whatever makes you happy. Just have some me-time. You will thank yourself for it. Trust me.
You are able to disconnect for awhile
It is vital to set aside some time each day to unplug from all the ways we connect with others. Put that phone on airplane mode. Turn off that iPad or tablet. If you use your computer to create content, then try and work without all the alerts and retweets that come along with being connected in today's digital age. You'll be amazed at how much more you can get done when you do not have a device nearby to keep you distracted.
You can pick up a new hobby or skill
Spending an hour or two alone can help you make time for some new interests, hobbies and creative expression. You can take up that new solo cooking class or even try that online seminar or training you have been putting off until now. Why not even try a single-person exercise like taking a long bike ride or hike by yourself? You might just discover that you love spending some quality time alone.
There are also ways to recharge physically when you are alone:
1. Take a hot bath:
A long soak in a warm bath can help with total body relaxation. A bath can soothe muscle pain and balance ones mood, so pull out those bath salts and bath bombs and get to unwinding.
2. Get active:
Everyone has their own exercise that they love doing, whether it’s running, cycling, strength training, yoga, Pilates — you name it. What's important is that you keep active. A healthy body equals a healthy mind.
3. Sleep more:
Having balanced sleep is a definite must. Sleep plays a vital role in not only your mental health, but your physical health as well. Ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke. Further, it is involved in the healing and repair of your heart and blood vessels, The National Heart, Blood and Lung institute states. With all that in mind, make sure to get catch some ZZ's. Your body and mind will thank you.
So, are you ready to take that leap and fly solo? My best advice is just find what works best for you. Once you start spending some quality time alone, it'll start becoming second nature. You won't even have to think twice about doing it and pretty soon, you won’t be able to imagine living life any other way.
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