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Dr. Eric Perry
146 Comments

How to Have Healthy Alone Time

Written by Dr. Eric Perry
Image Credit: Pixabay

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” ~ Aristotle

When was the last time you had a day to yourself? If you are like most people it was probably a while ago. We live in a world where we are constantly bombarded by external stimuli. All of the noise has caused many of us to lose touch with our inner voice. Whether it is five minutes or an hour, having time for ourselves is a luxury that many of us do not have. It is important to set aside time for the sake of our well being. Make a date with yourself to indulge in your thoughts. This is a great way to reconnect with yourself.

Here are some suggestions on how to reconnect with yourself:

1. Turn off social media
Disconnect from social media. This includes Snapchat, Tumbler, Instagram, dating apps, Facebook, Reddit and yes even WordPress. As I am writing this it amazes me how many ways there are to keep us distracted and disconnected from ourselves and others. How dependent have we become on social media? When was the last time you took a mindful break? It might be difficult at first, but I promise you will survive. You will have more time for yourself, be more relaxed and happier.

2. Start a journal and document your journey of self-discovery
Start a journal and make a list of what interests you. It might be difficult at first, but ask yourself, “What really matters to me?” and “What would I like to explore about myself?” Maybe you would like to learn a language or learn to play a musical instrument. Perhaps you want to re-read your favorite author or find a new author to appreciate. A journal will be a great way to document your interests and personal growth.

3. Visualize
Take time to reflect on where you are in life and where you see yourself in the future. Visualize where you would like to be and write it down in your journal. Then, take the steps to make it happen.

4. Exercise
The benefits of exercise are numerous. Not only is exercise good for your health, but it is an excellent way to connect with your mind and body. You can walk, run, do yoga or any other form of exercise. It is important to have a healthy balance between mind and body in order to feel whole and healthy. I recommend trying a walking meditation. It can be done anywhere there is room to walk. As you walk, pay attention to your movements. Feel every step. The idea is to stay present and aware of your body.

5. Do absolutely nothing
For most, this is a difficult thing to do. Give yourself permission to do nothing. Find a comfortable place in your home and let yourself just be. I do not mean for you to meditate, reflect or do anything else. Just relax your mind and body. Let yourself just get comfy. If you happen to take a nap, great!

The thoughts expressed in this blog post are my own and are not meant to create a professional relationship with the reader. This blog does not replace or substitute the help of a medical professional. Please note, I am unable to answer your specific questions as I am not fully aware of all of the circumstances.

Kindly,
Dr. Perry

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146 responses to How to Have Healthy Alone Time

  2. mindelate says:

    Alone time and silence seem to be avoided and almost feared in our times, because we’re so consumed by our hectic lifestyles. The chaos and the noise all feel ‘normal’. While having quiet moments alone in quickly attributed to loneliness or wasting time.

    A great message in this post! It’s a reminder each one of us needs.

    Liked by 5 people

  3. Miriam says:

    Such a great post Eric and so needed in our fast paced world. Sometimes I think we’ve forgotten how to disconnect and enjoy silence but it’s so important. Thanks for the reminders.

    Liked by 1 person

    • MakeItUltra™ says:
      Author

      Hi Miriam, I agree. I find that I function much better after I have disconnected for a bit. Have a wonderful day and thank you for your comment ✨

      Liked by 3 people

  5. Marie Abanga says:

    Hi Eric, I discovered me 4 years ago and hmm I trying to find a balance between all my spare time for me and some for my kids v time for others. I mean work and quick back home to me and the boys. But I don’t joke to enjoy my own company, enjoy silent moments with just me, I mean do all those things you highlight and still miss me. I have one hour usually on Thursdays after work to treat myself to a drink … Not always possible but I try. Some say I am becoming very selfish with my time and company, so be it. Thanks for this post

    Liked by 1 person

  7. thethingswehideinside says:

    I’ve been reading about this a lot lately and been seriously considering my desire for it- and whether I think it sounds scary or exhilarating- an entire day alone, no responsibilities… but all alone.

    Liked by 3 people

  11. Nicolle says:

    Good advice! I make sure to have some alone time and silence at least a couple of times a week, or I’d become grumpy, being the introvert I am. 😆

    Liked by 1 person

  12. SuzieDoesHealthy says:

    I agree. We all need time to ourselves. A few weeks ago, I drove an hour back to my old neighborhood just to relax and get a massage. I haven’t been able to find a person I like nearby. In fact I turned it into a pamper day for me which is better than spending alone time. I felt so much better after a spa pedicure, manicure, hot wax for my hands and feet and a massage all at one of my favorite places. Everyone said hello when I walked and were truly happy to see me. I enjoyed my special day and came home feeling great.
    Your blog’s are always insightful. I need to reblog this for my site.

    Liked by 1 person

  16. Kirti Bhardwaj says:

    So true. I’ve recently started to have one day of the week as the rest day in which I do not tell myself to have a routine, I allow myself to do whatever I want to do, as much as I want to do and it feels great!

    Liked by 1 person

  17. LynDurante says:

    I really love the number 5 tip: Do Nothing. It’s one thing that I really need to do soonest. I would want to reblog this in my post at my self hosted site LynDurante.com with credits to you. Thank you for these helpful insights!

    Liked by 1 person

  20. KindallD. says:

    Loved it! I actually do all of these things and then some! I love when I get to do absolutely nothing!

    Liked by 2 people

    • MakeItUltra™ says:
      Author

      It’s a wonderful luxury when we get to do nothing! Thank you for your comment and have a great day ✨

      Liked by 2 people

  21. shooting star says:

    Hey, that’s a great post! Really necessary right now when everybody around us is just too loud! And doing absolutely nothing is the best remedy possible 😉 also I think keeping a journal helps us to connect to ourselves as well. Thanks for the post, good day 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Fitness and Fueling says:

    Very important to clear your mind. Other people feel they need to talk to people all the time to work out their issues. But in my opinion everyone elses thoughts on the matter only hinder mine. Im ranting, anyway, alone time is critical. Great article!

    Liked by 1 person

  23. hintsoflifesite says:

    Great read! There are days when are try to ‘Do nothing absolutely’ but it is a challenge. Nonetheless, I will keep trying till I succeed. Thanks for sharing.

    Liked by 1 person

  28. Aditi Agarwal says:

    Probably the best piece of writing about self- discovery. You covered aspects that are unpretentious but essential, especially visualization, which people often fail to do. To know where we are in life, and where we want to be, to be aware of our past, present and future is of utmost importance. Eye- opening article!

    Liked by 2 people

  29. Lady Elle says:

    I am a ambivert working in retail and most of the time i deal with good peope and also bad. On my off days, I have to have a whole day alone and it so worth it. It is a total refresh for the week.

    Liked by 1 person

  34. dreagrey says:

    I have made some of my most important decisions when I have reconnected with “Me Time”. It is oh so important to the soul but us many of us forget this in the hustle and bustle of the real world. Thank you for this timely reminder in a time where the world whizzes past and we all get lost in the shuffle. ♥

    Liked by 3 people

  36. David Swan says:

    I have had too much alone time but agree there is a point when it becomes really beautiful but I sense being dragged back into the ordinary world of work again : ( ; )

    Liked by 1 person

  37. forgivingjournal says:

    This is beautiful, Eric. Thank you! It’s so important to have alone time that is really quality, tuning inside to what is true, and allowing time to just simply be. Funny, I’m reading a great book on Soul-Centered Leadership called “Get Real” by Stephen McGhee. In it, he talks about the profound power of doing nothing.
    Many blessings, Eric! Debbie

    Liked by 2 people

  38. Connor Rickett says:

    Good advice! It’s easy to lose track of just how much time we lose to social media every day unless we unplug now and then. Not to say it isn’t nice to keep up with what’s going on in the lives of people we care about who don’t happen to live down the street anymore, but it’s a bit of tar pit if you’re not careful.

    Liked by 2 people

    • MakeItUltra™ says:
      Author

      That’s a great description, “tar pit”. You can easily become ensnarled and lose track of time and yourself ✨

      Liked by 2 people

  40. Sunny Lanning says:

    At times it’s hard to pull away from that nagging feeling that if I have spare time, I must be using it in service for someone else. But I really do relish those moments when I am only beholden to my own whims a d fancies.

    Liked by 1 person

  41. Letisha Bloomfield says:

    Thanks for this. I love the time I’ve started scheduling in just for me to do what I want. It might be nothing, it might be exercising, it might be reading/writing/blogging. I might go and get my hair done or I might laze in bed. I might plan out what I want to do over the next days, weeks, months or I might reflect back. Whatever I choose to do, it’s all about me and it’s fabulous 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  43. Browsing the Atlas says:

    I HAVE to have my alone time. It’s when I rejuvenate and replenish. In fact, after my divorce, I’ve valued it more than ever and tell potential suitors that I need regular alone time. They’re all fine with it. I think I’m drawn to other people that need that, too.

    Liked by 1 person

  44. Lotta Villagefield says:

    Alone time is something I used to think I had a lot of, too much of, but I always invited every single person and problem in my life with me in my head so I ended up more exhausted. And then there was a stage of guilt–I took my time away from things and people who needed my attention. But this way of living, I realised later, actually had the counter-effect and even if I was there in body, I was not present–not firing on all pistons, so to speak. If I am not at peace with myself, I cannot do much for others. Just yesterday evening I took my camera down to the river and I was out for three full hours. My phone was admittedly in my camera bag, but I did not look at it once. Just me, my camera, and the setting sun. Thank you for this post–a refresher of excellent advice and a reminder of how I do things differently these days and how much it helps my wellbeing and affects the wellbeing of those around me when I forget.

    Liked by 2 people

  46. touched2mysoul says:

    I love my alone time! I find that I enjoy my own company! It gives me time to just be me with no demands and I get energized from the process of just connecting with myself. I love your advice and it’s awesome that you put this out there as it showed that alone time can be productive and ok.

    Liked by 1 person

  49. Francesca Maria says:

    Good article you wrote here. I am taking the advice. After what I have just been through with my recent ex and his hatefulness and terrible posts on Facebook, I need to to just follow your steps … Thank you

    Liked by 1 person

  50. Jescole says:

    Visualizing my goals is what gets me through meditation and everything else.. I have ADHD so it’s hard for me to sit still and focus but this keeps me on tast.

    Liked by 1 person

  53. mymindmedicine says:

    Reblogged this on My Mind Medicine and commented:
    Me time is something I struggle to make time for. Reading this made me wonder whether the time I do get to myself is even healthy. Some great tips to follow from MakeitUltra.

    Liked by 1 person

  54. saralogston says:

    The world we live in makes “alone time” uncomfortable for most. Some people are fidgety at the thought of eating alone regardless. However, our day-to-day relationships are reduced to Facebook likes and quick texts degrading the foundation for basic human connection. The digital addiction is hard to power down when we are feeling alone already.

    Liked by 2 people

  56. fosyed says:

    I used to have alone time either at the beach taking pictures watching sunset or admiring the sea, thinking about life, or by locking myself in my room doing nothing but checking social media or something to keep me busy. But recently i have internet problem for 2 days i really felt like i have no purpose in life, but after a while i realised i’ve got all the time in the world for myself and to do what i want. Internet, social media smart phones are distracting me from myself and my goals. I’ve done all things u’ve listed above except for the SM part, i have to work on it more. And adding to those 5 things, not carrying a smart phone gives u more time for yourself, it’s hard, i lost mine and want to get a new one but i’m delaying this idea because i feel i’m at peace this way.

    Liked by 2 people

  62. Sheik Mohamed says:

    Hi Eric, Great post. You were right. People tend to surround by something all the time. Alone time is very much important to lead a healthy lifestyle. I would like to reblog your post on my leadership traits blog as I thought health is one of the most important trait a leader must possess! Thank you for sharing helpful insights..

    Liked by 1 person

  65. रिchie says:

    I so agree with first point. I myself disconnected myself from social media in 2012 to have time for myself… It definitely is best practice in today’s scenario!

    And definitely doing nothing is what I aim… But very very difficult!!!!

    Thank u for the lovely post!

    Liked by 1 person

  66. writegardener says:

    This is exactly a major reason why I have resisted and been extremely careful to not become involved with social media — I do not want to disassociate from my self and loves, including nature. It is a tightrope difficult balance to try and stay in tune with the world while staying true to my values, hence, I carefully select where I place my time and attention. Still, there are times, and I’ve noticed them more often, that I would like to totally unplug even from the minor amounts of technology where I have become involved. Relocating to a remote location where I must rely simply on living in nature, where the only noise is the chatter of birds, is becoming more and more appealing.

    Liked by 2 people

  67. D I V I N A says:

    Love this one💕 I love silence and people who are able to be in silence with me. R & R is much need from social media 100%✌🏽I am subconsciously doing everything you have written about in this blog, thank you for confirming “gratitude” 🙏🏽 Life is to lived the best way we know how. Cheers Divina ✌🏽😇

    Liked by 1 person

  69. turning20web says:

    Hello!! I am in my twenties and I was addicted to all the social media such as whatsapp fb and insta. Then in the beginning of 2017 I decided to delete all my accounts there and detox myself.. I felt more good.. I got more productive towards my study and work.. And real people mattered me.. I was happy and now I go there once a month..really switching off such gadgets and accounts take courage.. 🙂

    Liked by 4 people

  70. Michala Tyann says:

    I wanted to say I love what you’ve created within your blog. This post resonated deeply for me as I struggle to find healthy alone time. Your suggestions are spot on. Thank you for your motivating posts and giving to others a strong positive outlet of informative and optimistic words. Much appreciated!

    Liked by 3 people

  71. simplyjaneen says:

    I have implemented all 5 steps within the past year and although sometimes it’s hard to maintain. I know for a fact I’m a better me when I take the time out to just connect with myself. Thank you 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  72. mycountryepoque says:

    Alone time is one of the best space we can afford for ourselves. We need this kind of treat. And yes social media is one of the most annoying playground that we need to be away from it for sometimes. forget the world, and make a space for ourselves alone and just watch nature, inhale, breathe, and think of ourselves alone. It is one such good remedy for the soul. Thank you for posting Dr Perry for posting. Have a nice week!

    Liked by 2 people

  74. Tatjana Ostojic says:

    I often quote Aristotle on this one. Observing people I get the impression that Google has more insight into their personalities than they have themselves

    Liked by 1 person

  78. violakaroly says:

    I enjoy being alone as I spend time reading, learning languages, and watching foreign films. I think , in my case, I need to develop external relationships. Good and healthy ones! I’m just not sure how to start.

    Liked by 1 person

  79. zeesviews says:

    Really a profound thought🙌🏻👍🏻
    I also like to enjoy my own company and always manage to find time for myself😊🤗

    Liked by 1 person

  80. carol hopkins says:

    I love this. For me solitude is as necessary as breathing. I actually get up extra early every morning to try to ensure a bit of quiet time to sit with my thoughts, (It doesn’t always work out, but I try). This is such great advice and I also appreciate your tips on how to have healthy alone time. Thank you!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dr. Perry says:
      Author

      Thank you Carol. I also need my alone time to reflect and re-energize. It is essential for my own mental health✨

      Liked by 1 person

      • carol hopkins says:

        Yeah, I notice a big difference in my daily life if for any reason I am denied this bit of quiet and solitude. It’s nice to know I’m not alone! Wonderful post!

        Liked by 1 person

  81. Joanne Westermann says:

    I love my alone time! I have a few times I am blessed to be alone. My morning meditation, some times during my day I find myself day dreaming (also considered meditation at times) and in the evening I also find a few minutes to just sit and “relax”. I had to learn how to do this, I have a very busy mind and it certainly did not come easy. Most of my reflection comes from my alone time…shows me where I have been and where I am going. Thank you Dr Perry for this reminder to take care of myself! Good night

    Liked by 2 people

  85. Bee says:

    Firm believer in alone time. Recharging and refilling the bucket that might be empty is what I try to teach other caregivers around me. Self care leads to better outward care of things and people around us. Very nice post!

    Liked by 1 person

  88. dmhendricks71 says:

    This is a perfect post and comes at a perfect time. I just mentioned something quite similar in my post about spending time with my emotions. Being I just lost my job and I don’t have any small children, I happen to have quite a bit of time on my hands. I have actually spent a lot of time out at Lake Michigan this week doing just that – spending time alone. The water and waves are perfect for soothing my soul. Sometimes I take a short walk through the sand. Other times, I just sit in my car, lean the seat back, make sure my windows are open and sometimes fall asleep. Other times, I read. I’m forced to disconnect for social media as the connection out there is pretty much null. I really enjoy my time out there. Sometimes, I find that I cry due to my hardships right now. I think spending time alone is crucial! And I believe that one should make time for it. Put it on your calendar!

    Liked by 1 person

  90. Nikki Fernandez says:

    Sometimes I like to read or just lay in bed and listen to jazz music. I agree that exercising is one the best things you could do for your body.

    Liked by 1 person

  91. Lady Elle says:

    As an only child, having alone time is a continuous cycle for me and I have loved it ever since.

    Liked by 1 person

  92. jojobateman says:

    Alone time is so under rated . It is truly one of lifes luxuries in this busy world. How concerning that some people really never have alone time or even more concerning shy away from it completely.

    Liked by 1 person

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