Finding Solitude and Joy in Weekend Activities: Embracing Self-Care and Personal Growth

Sometimes, the solution is just around you.

As a teacher, weekends provide a precious opportunity to do things on your own terms. No deadlines, no announcements from the line manager at work. I believe this empowerment can be truly liberating. Embracing solitude can open up possibilities that you might not have considered before.

In the past decade, perhaps like me, you used to enjoy spending weekends outdoors—dining out, exploring quaint coffee shops, or enjoying a cocktail at night. However, I've made my home a place where I have no reason to venture outside unless there's a special occasion! In Saigon's sea of food and beverage outlets, I find myself becoming quite picky as I get older. I don't risk going to places with unbelievable reviews or those I've never visited before. I usually frequent places I enjoy, but if the consistency of the menu changes, I'm hesitant to return. Seriously, that has happened often, and I suspect it's due to a change in the kitchen staff or chef!

So, I choose to stay at home and enjoy the food I prepare in my own kitchen. I make my hand-brewed coffee using a V60, so I rarely go to a coffee shop unless it offers specialty coffee beans or the interior is exceptionally interesting! I also have a variety of teas that I can enjoy without the noise you typically encounter in a coffee shop. Or to enjoy the leftover Merlot in the fridge!

Again, sometimes, the solution is just around you. I mentioned this again to emphasize my hands-on activities while spending weekends at home. Taking care of my garden, cooking in the kitchen, and creating DIY skincare products are some of my favorite pastimes. Yes, I take self-care seriously, both mentally and physically. That means focusing on my skin, hair, and overall appearance. The question is, are you willing to take time to do the little things? Starting from scratch can be daunting, and we often want quick results. But there's joy in doing small tasks and watching them grow or take effect just as we expect! Sometimes, we complain about our dry skin and blame it on external factors. Sometimes, small things grow into bigger things! Complaining about problems at home or work without trying to find solutions can become a bad habit. Sometimes, the solution is just around you.

Gardening: Cultivating Growth and Patience

Gardening has become a therapeutic and fulfilling activity for me. It allows me to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of growth and patience. Each plant requires care, attention, and nurturing, much like our students in the classroom. The process of tending to my garden has taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of nurturing growth over time.

Cooking: Exploring Creativity and Nourishment

Cooking in the kitchen is another activity that brings me immense joy. It allows me to explore my creativity and experiment with new recipes and flavors. Preparing meals at home gives me control over the ingredients and ensures that I am nourishing my body with healthy, delicious food. The satisfaction of creating a meal from scratch and sharing it with loved ones is unparalleled.

DIY Skincare: Prioritizing Self-Care

Creating DIY skincare products has become a significant part of my self-care routine. I enjoy experimenting with natural ingredients and crafting personalized products that cater to my specific needs. Whether it's a soothing face mask with honey, coffee grounds, and yogurt, a nourishing hair treatment with boiled cloves and rosemary from my garden, or a rejuvenating body scrub, these DIY projects allow me to prioritize my well-being and maintain a healthy, radiant appearance.

Embracing Solitude: Finding Joy in Alone Time

Remember, enjoying your solitude, especially as you transition into adulthood, does not mean you are missing out. It's an opportunity to connect with yourself on a deeper level. You too can make your weekends resonate with who you are and what brings you joy.

Solitude allows for introspection and self-discovery. It provides the space to explore your interests, passions, and hobbies without the distractions of daily life. Embracing alone time can lead to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of what truly matters to you.

Sometimes, the solution is just around you.

Weekends are a time to embrace solitude, focus on self-care, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Whether it's tending to your garden, cooking in the kitchen, or creating DIY skincare products, these activities offer a sense of fulfillment and empowerment.

As an educator, it's essential to take time for yourself and recharge. By embracing the simple pleasures of life and prioritizing self-care, you can enhance your well-being and find joy in the everyday moments. So, the next time you find yourself with a free weekend, remember to look around you and discover the possibilities that await. ??