From the Almanac

Unwind and rejuvenate in the countryside

Living in a city can be both exciting and exhausting. The hustle and bustle of city life can leave you feeling drained and stressed out. That's why it's important to take a break from the city every once in a while and head to the country for some much-needed relaxation. In this blog, we'll explore some ways to detox from city life and unwind in the countryside.

  1. Unplug with Aro Box. One of the first steps to disconnect from the stress of city life is to unplug from technology. According to a 2021 survey conducted by the market research company, eMarketer, the average American adult spends about 3 hours and 43 minutes on their mobile devices each day. In addition to this, the average American adult also spends about 3 hours and 30 minutes watching TV or streaming video content each day. Collectively, this means that many people are spending over 7 hours a day on their phones, TV, or video games.  The Aro Box is a great tool to put away your devices and start your digital detox. The box is designed to create a phone-free space in your home, giving you time to relax and connect with your loved ones.
  2. Connect with Family. When you're living in a city, it's easy to get caught up in work and the fast pace of life. A trip to the countryside is a perfect opportunity to connect with your family. Try spending quality time together by playing board games, taking walks, or cooking meals together. One of the joys of being in the countryside is having the opportunity to cook and eat slowly. Take the time to shop for fresh ingredients and prepare meals with care. Savor each bite and enjoy the flavors and textures of your food. These simple activities can help you bond with your loved ones and create lasting memories.
  3. Read a Book instead of binge-watching your favorite shows on Netflix, why not enjoy a good book? Reading is a great way to unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life. Some highly recommended books for a relaxing weekend include "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho, "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd, and "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed.
  4. Practice Yoga. Yoga is a great way to relax and destress. It can also help you connect with your body and mind. If you're new to yoga, try attending a beginner's class or following along with a yoga video online. Some beginner-friendly poses to try include child's pose, downward-facing dog, and corpse pose.
  5. Meditation is another great way to quiet your mind and reduce stress. Find a quiet place in the countryside where you can sit comfortably and focus on your breath. Try to let go of any thoughts or distractions and just be present in the moment. You can also use a guided meditation app like Headspace or Calm to help you get started.
  6. Take a Nature Walk. The countryside is the perfect place to connect with nature. Take a leisurely stroll through a park or a scenic trail. Take in the sights, smells, and sounds of the natural world around you. Research has shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress and anxiety levels.
  7. Try a Full Digital Detox. In addition to the Aro Box, try going all the way. Turn off your phone, laptop, TV and any other digital devices for a day or even a weekend. Instead, focus on the present moment and engage in activities that bring you joy, such as hiking, painting, or simply spending time with loved ones.
  8. Learn Something New. The countryside can offer a wealth of opportunities to learn something new. Whether it's learning to bake bread, plant a garden, or ride a horse, taking on a new challenge can be both fun and rewarding. Learning new skills can also boost self-confidence and help you feel more accomplished.
  9. Practice Gratitude! Being in the countryside can remind us of the simple things in life that we often take for granted. Take some time each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for, such as the beauty of nature, good health, or the love of family and friends. Practicing gratitude can help you feel more content and happy with your life.

A city to country switch is a great way to detox from the noise and stress of everyday life. Put away your phone, connect with your family, read a good book, practice yoga and meditation, take a nature walk, and try a full digital detox. There are many simple pleasures to enjoy in the countryside, such as watching the sunset, listening to birdsong, or going for a swim in a nearby river or lake. Take the time to appreciate these moments and soak in the beauty of nature around you.  

Simply put, allow yourself to fully embrace the slower pace of country life.

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