While at a social event a few weeks ago, I was reminded that before “romanticizing your life” became a thing, I was already on that wave. I’ve always been a person that finds joy in the simple things; no matter how mundane a task may be, I know how to experience it through a lens that makes things a little bit better. This has been my saving grace through life, because it allows me to find comfort and still be content even during seasons that may be very hard. I am truly a “glass half full” type of woman and very optimistic, so I wanted to share a few of the ways that I like to romanticize my life. The actions may be very simple, but they add up to a very enjoyable way to live, regardless of what season I may be in.
Reconnect with nature
Now, reconnecting with nature doesn’t mean that you will find me zip-lining or doing really adventurous stuff outside- I am NOT that person, lol. BUT, what you will find is me sitting outside in the sun at home or in a park taking a walk, reading a book, doing a crossword puzzle, or even just listening to music and people watching. Nature has a way of grounding and resetting us even if we’re only outside for 10-15 minutes, so I have always made it a priority to reconnect with nature when life gets to be a little much. Sunlight is so good for you, and if you couple that with a good book, song or even a friend, you will feel so much more like yourself afterwards.
Take solo museum dates
I love, love, love visiting museums. I don’t care what type they are, but I love to visit them. It’s a way for me to learn about new artists, events in history, how things are made/created and so forth. Even when I travel, I make it a priority to visit at least one. Now, to make the moments extra special, I’ll also put on a cute little outfit, peruse their gift shops, and if they have a cafe, try to have a meal or drink there as well. I make it a full on experience. Best of all? Many museums are free or very low cost, so it’s an activity that won’t break the bank.
Make bath time special
Bath and shower time is almost like a ritual for me. A candle will be lit, a playlist will be played, and a specialty soap or body wash will be used. IMO, there are fewer compliments better than “you smell good”, so I make it a point to indulge during this time. I love the little specialty soaps that smell like roses or sandalwood (depends on the season), I slather myself in lotions and oils, and I always mix my perfumes and fragrances to make my own custom scent. Most of the time I have my phone on DND so that I can really have a little pocket of peace, and I always feel amazing and refreshed afterwards. I know we are busy and in a rush 99% of the time, but I promise, even if you only have a few minutes to do this, you will feel so much better if you’re using fancy little products while you do.
Get lost in old and independent bookstores
I’ve always loved to read, and while Amazon and Barnes & Noble always come in clutch when I want to get something quickly and cheaply, there is nothing like perusing through smaller locally owned and old/used bookstores. There’s a comfort that I feel when I visit them, like I’m visiting an old friend and I don’t have to rush. Even if it’s only a 20-30 minute visit, it’s a simple way to slow down and explore in a different way.
Keep fresh flowers in the home
I will scream this til I’m blue in the face: BUY THE DAMN FLOWERS! Yes, it’s really sweet when someone else gives you flowers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to the same thing as well. Fresh flowers in your home are one of life’s little luxuries, so don’t pass up on them. Doesn’t matter if it’s huge bouquet from a specialty florist or $7 roses from the grocery store-you will never regret treating yourself to fresh flowers.
There are so many other ways that I like to romanticize my life, but these are just a few that are really simple that anyone can do.