A year into this pandemic, I realized that I do not do enough to make myself comfortable and happy in my own company. 

I FaceTime my parents on a daily basis. I keep in touch with my friends regularly. But, like many of us, I’ve put too much importance on keeping in touch with my loved ones and too little on keeping in touch with myself.

It is great to have a strong support system of people who will always be there for you, but I cannot stress how crucial it is to learn to enjoy your own company, too.

Growing up, my father would often sit still during long travels. No phones, no talking to other people, no listening to music. Just him basking in the tranquility of the moment. 

I wish more and more every day that I, and everyone, could be at peace like him.

Of course, being in harmony with yourself and being content with simply observing your train of thought pass by in your mind is not easy. Like all things, it comes with patience and practice. It’s a process that could start with something as simple as taking a deep, long breath and closing your eyes. 

I personally enjoy making myself a warm drink, soaking in the sunshine and observing things outside my window. It’s great to take the backseat sometimes and be an observer in the chaos of things. 

Also, focusing on your breath and feeling a sense of gratitude for all the good things and people you have in your life is an amazing way to feel positive. Mundane things like folding your freshly laundered clothes or taking some time for skincare can be a relaxing way to wind down after a long day.

Believe it or not, connecting with oneself does not have to be about spirituality, doing flexible yoga moves or being a monk. It is a state of being in complete acceptance of your present and focusing on the power of “now.” It is your active decision to let go of things bothering you from the past. 

Do this and the next time you start an hour-long lecture, you will learn to listen and sit still. We all need that.

This op-ed was written by a University of Saskatchewan undergraduate student and reflects the views and opinions of the writer. If you would like to write a reply, please email opinions@thesheaf.com. Akshara Dash is a second-year undergraduate student studying interactive systems design.

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Akshara Dash

Graphics: Akshara Dash