Whether you're a man or a woman reading this, or however you identify yourself, do you have a place where you can catch a breather and relax? A safe haven, man cave, whatever you want to call it.
If not I advise you to get one or to find a place where you can decompress and forget about the world for a while. Man caves or retreating is so nourishing for your mental health. We all need a place where we can enjoy solitude, breathe, and wish our worries away.
My getaway has always been the beach. Something about watching the waves crash makes me forget about my surroundings and just zone in. It puts me in a trance, I mean can anyone else relate when you go to the beach?
My favorite time heading to the beach is before dawn. I've always had a love for mother nature and always like to appreciate her beauty when I can. The sky pink as cotton candy and then transforming into a burning orange ball you need to look away from its so bright, but you catch yourself entranced! I love experiencing that! I forget about the world for a minute, my problems washed away as I inhale the salty air. Ugh! Just writing this description makes me want to drive to long island and experience it again.
My dad is a fisherman and would always go out during the wee hours of the morning, I would tag along of course for the fun of it, not knowing no matter how many times I experienced watching the sunrise, I would always feel that same overwhelming emotion of love and appreciation.
When I moved to the city back in 2017, of course, there was nothing like the experience of heading to the beach almost every morning, but I needed to feel that same sense of appreciation to decompress my busy brain. Seeking out Central and Riverside Park was my little getaway for the 2 and a half years I had lived in Manhattan.
No matter the day, the weather, of course dressing appropriate for the weather, I would go out and explore. My favorite times were when the sun would set. I'm a big fan of taking photos of the views, the sky, the moon, (big nature lover over here haha). If it was too chilly to sit, Id walk around until the sun would set, practice my breathing and send gratitude to the universe, and then retrieve home.
Having places where I can decompress and escape reality for a few has been super beneficial to my life. I know you can all relate who lives in the city, how fast-paced and busy the city seems to be no matter what hour of the day! Just taking a few minutes to yourself can help slow down your brain, become more present and appreciate the little things that we may not realize with everything else going on in our busy lives.
No matter where you decide you want your man cave to be or your retreat spot, savor all that time you experience there!! Appreciate yourself, that moment, your life, etc. Don't let negative thoughts stay, acknowledge them, and let go. Remember that it is your time for yourself. Why spend that time reminiscing on the past or anything that's not benefiting you right now?!
Time is precious we all know that, focus on things and people that make you happy if you are going to think at all!! When I went to the beach or hang out in the park, I would set my eyes on one thing and try and not think at all! Just taking in my view as much as I can, appreciating the beautiful landscape that's in front of me.
It's difficult to not think about anything but, try and focus your eyes on one thing when you're in your man cave and breathe in and out. If you are familiar with my blogs, I have written about Mediation many times and the benefits of practicing such a powerful tool. Meditating while in your retreat or however you would like to call it, is something you should do once you get comfortable with fully being immersed in the present moment. Try it out and you will see exactly what I am mentioning! :)
Here are 10 places if you are lost on where your "mancave" or a great retreat spot will be beneficial :
- The Beach
- Mountains
- Private room in the comfort of your home
- Cabin in the forest
- Your backyard (If you have one)
- Park
- Pool
- Sauna ( 20 minutes maximum stay)
- Gym (If you would like some social interaction, although I don't recommend, the choice is yours!)
- Countryside
Each of these places provides serenity and self peace in which you need and deserve. Wherever you chose, even if it's just your home and your alone and you consider that you're a little getaway for a while, whatever makes you happy! Remember a man cave is only there for you to retreat to seek some well deserved YOU time.
Remember to take care of your well being. There's only one special version of you:)
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