Learning to relax
Going back to school — or at least taking a course — can be a great
way to keep our minds active and our curiosity alive. Learning also broadens
our outlook and introduces us to new ideas and new people — and that always
helps keep life in perspective.
You might not think about learning as a way to reduce stress. But when you
immerse yourself in something new, you can forget your worries, if only for
an hour or two. Adopt a back-to-school philosophy to indulge an interest or
develop a brand new passion. Here are just a few ideas to help you uncover some
learning opportunities.
- Grab a university calendar. If you're fortunate enough
to live near a university or college, grab its continuing education calendar.
You'll likely find a good selection of courses that are open to anyone.
- Look for retail expertise. Some local stores and boutiques
offer mini-courses to promote their unique wares or skills. For example, a
cheese tasting evening at the local deli, a flower arranging lesson at that
funky little florist or a knitting class at the wool shop.
- Check your rec centre. Check with your municipality or
region to find out if courses are offered at local schools or community centres.
You may be surprised at the range of offerings beyond physical education programs.
- Gallery hop. Museums, art galleries, crafts studios and
historical sites are fantastic places to acquire practical art skills, art
appreciation knowledge or an understanding of the era or subject that is the
institution's specialty.
- Improvise. Have a laugh or explore your inner drama queen.
Contact a comedy cabaret or theatre to see if they offer classes to the public.
- Smell the flowers. Is there a botanical garden, nursery
or park that you've passed and admired? Find out if it offers instruction
on flowers, either cultivated or native.
- Mind your business. Contact your local board of trade
to see if it offers seminars or courses in business skills development.
- Study online. If you can't get to the classroom, let the
classroom come to you! You may be surprised to learn how many options there
are at your fingertips.