So it’s been a while, things have been overwhelming, and our family has still needed to practice social distancing. No fun meals out, or trips to the symphony, or splashing around at the pool. I’ve also found it really hard to concentrate on a book. Even so like the undeniably adorable Fritz, I need enrichment activities too. Which led me to a new venture: making digital journals.

While I certainly would love anyone looking for a journal to check mine out, I really want to talk about how enrichment activities (creating, playing, being silly) are a vital part of self care.

We give our pets toys, and engaging activities to keep them happy and healthy. Fritz is particularly fond of his big green ball. Yet we are quick to deny ourselves that same care.

Enrichment can be anything. Baking, gardening, dancing at two in the morning, drinking shirley temples. Its something that gives you a little boost, something that doesn’t have a deadline, or hang like an albatross.

Fun. Allowing ourselves to experience joy in color, and shape, and texture, the way we did when we were kids. The way our ancestors did when they made little clay figurines, or painted on cave walls.

So break out the board games, get a cheap crochet hook and a skien of yarn, find an easy recipe. Be as kind to yourself as you are to your pets. Find yourself a new venture, something that makes that ancient part of your brain dance!

Also! If you are looking to start your own journaling practice, check out my tips here. I’ve transitioned to digital journaling, but I still love notebooks, and fountain pens!