The Art of Escapism: Fun Ways to Create More Joy in Your Life
Escapism
This idea of “escapism” is about feeling alive to life. We all live busy lives and have moments when we crave a change or a mental break. Sometimes just looking at the world through a different lens can help us feel more expansive, rejuvenated, and refreshed.
I thought I would share a few ideas for you to ponder...
4 SIMPLE WAYS TO ESCAPE
LIFE FOR AWHILE
1. Look at TV & Movies with an Artist’s Eye
People watch shows for different reasons, but often it’s to relax and give our minds a break. I love finding shows that are not only well written but are visually stimulating that I can look at with an “artist’s eye.” By this I mean paying attention to how the scenes were filmed, what clothing was worn, how the rooms were styled, and the location they were set in.
This is all art. Someone created this to evoke a feeling.
Shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (one of my favorites) are not only brilliantly written, the costumes and sets are well thought out and amazingly gorgeous. Every detail, like the color of the walls, the styled bookcases, and the time period accessories has been considered and thoughtfully curated to make you feel a certain way, much like a painter does with a painting.
Try looking at your favorite shows with an artist's eye. It will fuel your creativity and allow you to appreciate all the effort that goes into each show.
2. FIND BOOKS THAT TRANSPORT YOU
Books have the ability to ignite our imaginations, help us grow, and transport us to just about anywhere we want to go. Maybe that’s to Italy like in the book Under the Tuscan Sun, or somewhere sunny and warm like Jimmy Buffett’s Tales from Margaritaville or A Salty Piece of Land. Another favorite book of mine is a Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Books are magical to me. What are your favorites?
3. CONNECTION
One of my favorite things in the world to do is spend time with friends. I love deep, thoughtful conversations and laughing with people who "get me". Making time to connect beyond simple small talk widens our perspective, makes us think differently, and helps us grow. When we are growing we feel renewed and alive.
Who are the people in your life that make you feel revitalized after you're with them? Consider giving them a call and catching up.
4. GROW YOUR MIND WITH PODCASTS
I’m a pretty deep thinker and love learning new things. Podcasts are an easy way to expand your thinking. They are so easy to pop on while you're working out, cleaning, doing the dishes or laundry. I love to listen to them while I'm painting and have notebooks filled with insights and ideas. People are amazingly generous in sharing their knowledge, stories and life experience. We all have unique perspectives and ways of looking at the world and can learn so much from each other.
Here are a few favorite podcasts you may enjoy:
Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday: These are a collection of interviews from Oprah's network that have been made into a podcast (you can watch them on her OWN channel). She interviews all kinds of spiritual and thought leaders. Each one has opened my eyes to different perspectives and ways of being in the world.
Oprah’s Master Class: This is another show on Oprah's network that has been turned into a podcast. It's a biographical series that highlights the accomplishments and backstories of famous individuals. It details the road to their current success, failures, triumphs, and all. It is shared in a way that is meant to inspire you.
I love all of these Master Class episodes. A few of my favorites are with Morgan Freeman, Jon Bon Jovi, and Dr. Maya Angelou. LOVE SO MUCH!
Art for Your Ear: This podcast interviews amazingly talented contemporary artists. You get the inside scoop on their art and lives. It's super inspiring! I found Ashley Longshore's interview particularly awesome.
Beyond: I just discovered this podcast and I’m in love with Daphne’s thoughtful, caring interview questions. She gets to the heart of being a creative and you will find yourself wanting to take notes with all the ideas you will glean. Two of my favorite interviews are with Jesh De Rox & Satsuki Shibuya.
On Being: This podcast explores the intersection of spiritual inquiry, science, social healing, community, poetry, and the arts (all things that inspire me). It addresses the big questions of our time and will open your mind to new ways of thinking. Two of my favorite episodes are interviews with John O’Donohue & Mary Oliver. SO GOOD!
“Life is more manageable when thought of as a scavenger hunt
as opposed to a surprise party.”
~ Jimmy Buffett
INTENTIONALLY COME ALIVE
All of these things are so simple, yet when chosen intentionally have the power to stir our imaginations, escape our daily routines and ultimately make us feel more alive. When we feel alive we are innately happier and more receptive to the beauty that surrounds us.
I invite you to pay attention to what lights you up. What books, movies, tv shows, music, art, conversations, and podcasts light you up? Think about what attracts you to them and invite more of that into your life.
Miraculous clues to your joy are everywhere. You just have to open your eyes and heart to them.
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May you have the most delightful day!
💞 Laura
