As the soft warm wind blows and the leaves rustle, the sun reflects off the lines that seem to mar the green expanse of the petal shaped leaves, the body seems to relax, the heart slows, breathing becomes easier. Such moments are hardly ever appreciated and not forgotten. It is an experience, a one-of-a-kind experience.
According to Oxford Languages Dictionary, an experience can be classified as an event which leaves an impression on someone or simply an encounter. However, can something so profound such as an experience be explained in such simple words. Experiences shape us, they define our lives and our relations. An experience can leave such a lasting impact that it stays with us for the rest of our lives, or it can vanish from our thoughts the very next second. Nevertheless, does the time period of an experience in our memories dictate its value or are there some experiences that feel so precious at the moment but are forgotten too soon because we don’t value them enough?
This essay conveys some of life’s experiences that may be overlooked at times.
Most of us don’t like the silence that engulfs us when we have nothing to do and no one by our side. It comes as depressing and lonely to us, but being only with one self can be a truly gratifying experience. Sarah Monk in her article, “The Power of Silence,” states that silence is not the mere absence of noise, our internal disturbance and worries also contribute to the lack of silence in our lives. The constant pressure to finish tasks often leaves us feeling restless. Silence helps clear the chaos in our heads. It lowers stress levels, the blood pressure, boosts the immune system and reduces blood cortisol. It helps foster self-awareness, and enhanced focus as well as creativity. Some of the best things in life occur in silence.
A day without any plans, without any destination in mind can lead to wonderful days full of happiness and memories. This is a second must experience one should have. Life does not always have to be planned to the last detail. Such plans without stress and worry of the schedule allow for a deeper connection with life. Strict planning can suck the joy out of the outing. So, letting go, and going with the flow is one of the best options, after all life is unpredictable too.
Being lazy. Laziness is not a commendable quality. Though it is freeing. Taking a worry-free break, is beneficial for ones mental health. It enhances productivity as well. Intentional laziness also helps in preventing burnouts. It can recharge one’s energy. Such breaks, give the mind and body an opportunity to relax. Intentionally not doing anything can be a form of rest and self-care.
Next an emotionally powerful experience, an experience that is one of a kind. It can leave one in regret or can be the best decision one has ever made. Cutting your hair short. “Hair holds memories”, a rather poetic concept used by many individuals. Having short hair symbolizes a fresh start, something new. It is less of a hassle, and liberating. Cutting of the long locks one has held near and dear for so long can shift change their life. It can shift their mindset. A new outlook on life can feel daunting but it is a renewal.
The fifth underrated experience is being acknowledged for small practical things. We love getting acknowledgement and credit for our actions. However, being appreciated for small things like picking up a pencil or giving an eraser feels like butterflies. It is truly astonishing. Small acts of recognition boost one’s self-esteem and amplify positive emotions. It reduces negative social comparisons, and make one feel comfortable. It makes one feel good about helping others and encourages them to keep on performing good deeds. Life full of good deeds spreads positivity around one and within one as well.
Sometimes sleeping makes one feel guilty, especially when there is ton of work to be done, or books to be read and chapters to be studied. Sleep is undervalued in our fast-paced lives, full of action. The pressure we take on as students, adults, employees, and employers, cause us to consider mid-day naps or sleep as lazy. However, it is essential if one wants to perform their best. Taking a nap without any guilt or interruption is one of a kind. Just letting go and having a fitful sleep. Such naps are the best. They are rejuvenating and enable us to be more productive the next day. Guiltless sleep is simple, but one of the most wondrous experiences out there.
The seventh wonder of an experience, saying no. Saying no is considered rude and impudent, but is it though? We humans have free-will so why do we still hesitate to say no? Due to the cultural and societal norms? Or our people pleasing orientation. Reaffirming boundaries by refusing is an essential component of our lives. We have to set boundaries, to reduce our own stress, anxiety and burdens. It is a good habit that is empowering. Something that feels even better is saying no without providing any explanation. Our society is weird, we are encouraged to have self-respect, confidence and boundaries, but the moment we look out for ourselves we are seen as brazen and cheeky. By allowing yourself to simply say “no”, one reclaims control, and clarity. No one should feel the need to do something they don’t want to. Each one of us should have the confidence to be sure about what we want to do and what we don’t. Whether one feels uncomfortable, or simply doesn’t feel like it they should say no. This simple act is overlooked, but it is an impactful method to help our development and self-reliance.
The third last one. Expressing vulnerability. All our lives we attempt to uphold the image of a strong, unbreakable human, with countless talents, tons of money and qualifications. We are not machines; we are not made of stainless steel or not carved from the toughest minerals out there. We are weak, we fail, we fall, at times we are unable to run, think, do or even be, just being can be hard too. It is about time we realize that one does not have to pertain to the expectations set up by the people around us. Work hard, be courageous, show grit but one can be soft too. All these terms like “sigma” or “alpha” are the result of deep-rooted misconceptions that have been prolonged for ages. Being vulnerable is a heart wrenching experience. Allowing vulnerability is something only the strongest can do, because it means exposing yourself, laying yourself bare. Life is not easy but having people you can express vulnerability too is the most underrated thing. It shows that you are more the just the body. Communicating the truth, and nothing but the truth with one’s true sentiments is an experience that changes one’s life. It enrichens their life, and makes the world look clearer. It feels lighter to be you, to feel you and see the real you.
Ninth. Being able to move. We take so many parts of our life for granted. The fact that we can do so much is truly extraordinary. A miracle worth appreciating. Being able to move the body allows to dance, run, and play. Mobility reduces risk of many diseases. It releases the so called “feel-good hormones,” elevating our mood and inducing utter relaxation. This act of movement is never taken at its full value until it is compromised. We can chase our dreams.
The last one. Laughing without restraint. Have you ever laughed so hard that you had tears streaming out, your face was red and ugly, your stomach hurting but you just can’t stop. That is the absolute highlight of being human. Having the freedom to laugh so easily. The health benefits of laughing or countless and repeated. Reduces stress, anxiety, blood pressure, etc. Why is it underrated? Because we never truly appreciate it. Having the opportunity to laugh without restraint implies that we are free, and we are healing.
Thus, life is full of astounding experiences.
Experiences enable us to dream, to live to our fullest. Achieving something, falling in love, travelling the world, sky-diving, and many many more.
Yet there are everyday moments or rare occurring instances that we brush off never acknowledging their true value. A few them have been listed above.
Those that are to be cherished, to cry about, feel regret about and those to remember. Understanding and learning (from) our experiences, appreciating them and valuing them, enhances the experience.
No experience in life should be overlooked.
These experiences help us grow. They make us our best versions.
We don’t live for long, but the moment we are experiencing now is forever.
“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience. (Eleanor Roosevelt)”
By: Vrindaa Sharma
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