Feeling guilty for staying indoors on a sunny day?
Same
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The sun is shining, the streets are buzzing, and you’re stuck inside.
Consider it a key in ofFOMOor the “fear of missing out.”
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It can be guilt-inducing, but there are things that it’s possible for you to do to cope.
The answer is a bit complicated.
Caroline Fenkel, DSW, LCSW, the chief clinical officer and adolescent mental health expert at Charlie Health.
This can create a sense of obligation that, if unmet, leads to guilt."
In general, we know that spending time outside is good for our mental health.
Research also tends to support this idea.
One study found that there was a positive association between exposure to sunlight and mental health.
Weather can certainly have an impact on mood.
This cycle can leave you feeling unproductive, unaccomplished, andlonging for a break.
Give Yourself Outdoor Breaks
Remind yourself that it isnt an all-or-nothing conflict.
Allow yourself to feel sad or disappointed.
The key is toacknowledge that feelingbut not try toshameor guilt yourself for feeling it.
Remind yourself that while it’s disappointing, this isn’t the only chance you’ll have.
Or, maybe you just enjoy the peace and comfort of relaxing at home.
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a peaceful day indoors, even when the weather is beautiful.
Sometimes, you just might not have the energy or be in the right mood seize the day.
Its a toxic mindset that can contribute to overwork andburnout.
“Take a moment to list three things you are grateful for while staying indoors,” Goldberg recommends.
“Perhaps you arent risking sunburn or enjoying the quiet in the house.”
Try spending more time outside before and after work while the sun is shining.
Weekend outdoor activities can also help compensate for the time you spend indoors during the work week.
“Schedule outdoor activities for your next available day off or weekend,” he says.
Remember, this is a common experience for many people.
You might even find it helpful to talk about it with friends, family, and co-workers can help.
You might even be surprised to find that a lot of people are feeling the same way as you.
“Strive for balance and be flexible with your time,” says Fenkel.
Interior color and psychological functioning in a university residence hall.Frontiers in Psychology,9, 383159. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01580
