I saw something online that said as an adult you’re responsible for taking care of both the adult version of yourself and the child version. I absolutely agree. Childhood trauma tends to have lasting impact and as an adult, it then falls to you to heal it.
Here are 5 very random hobbies that I indulge in to heal my inner child.
1. Visiting the toy store
This was a result of the Barbie movie. I visited a toy store and realised that as an adult, I could buy anything I wanted. Sure most of the things I didn’t buy because the prices were ridiculous. But it felt kinda empowering to be walking around a toy store with my overpriced iced coffee knowing that I could buy myself anything I wanted. Except for those R1 000 dolls. I could never.
2. Going out for ice cream
Something about ice cream makes me so happy. It’s something so small and so simple but it brings me so much joy. My favourite ice cream spot is near the beach so I can buy a cone and watch the ocean. What could be better?
3. Playing videogames
This is something that I very recently discovered I enjoy. I bought myself a Nintendo Switch last year and it’s one of my favourite tech items. It’s so fun to disconnect from work with a cute little no pressure game.
4. Colouring
I’ve always loved colouring and it’s always been my way to destress from work. However I recently found a pack of markers from Typo and it’s upped the fun so much more. I can’t explain it. Get some markers and a colouring book (make sure the colour won’t seep through the pages) and try it out yourself.
5. Going to the movies
Another classic for me but I recently fell back into this habit because of my former workplace giving movie tickets whenever we donated blood. (I still think that’s how I got anemic but anyway, I loved the idea of “free movies”). Going to the movies was a big deal for me as a kid and even as an adult, the movies evoke the same excitement in me.
What are some hobbies that heal YOUR inner child? I’d love to know below.