Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: wellbeing

Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Become a Plant Parent Too)
From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Let’s be honest, my history with plants was less “green thumb” and more “leaves-turning-brown-on-contact.” I once managed to kill a cactus. A CACTUS. You know, the plant that thrives on neglect? Yeah, not even those desert warriors could survive my presence.

So, imagine my surprise when, during the depths of lockdown boredom, I found myself inexplicably drawn to a sad-looking peace lily at the grocery store. It was like it was sending me an S.O.S. with its droopy leaves. Against my better judgment (and the warnings of my roommate), I took it home. And that, my friends, is how my journey into the wonderful world of plant parenthood began.

The Unexpected Joys of Watching Things Grow (No, Really!)

I’m not going to lie, the first few weeks were a nerve-wracking dance of Googling “how much water does a peace lily need” and frantically checking for signs of life. But then, something magical happened. My neglected peace lily, the one I was convinced I’d already murdered with kindness (or lack thereof), sprouted a new leaf.

That tiny, green shoot filled me with an absurd amount of joy. It was like witnessing a tiny miracle, a testament to the fact that maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t destined to be a plant grim reaper after all. And honestly, that feeling? It’s addictive. There’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing another living thing and watching it thrive under your care.

Plants: The Chillest Roommates You’ll Ever Have

Unlike my actual roommate who tends to leave dirty dishes in the sink and blast terrible music at 2 a.m., my plants are the epitome of chill. They don’t require awkward small talk, they haven’t once complained about my questionable taste in reality TV shows, and they actually improve the air quality. Win-win!

Plus, they’re excellent listeners. Having a bad day? Tell it to the succulents! Feeling stressed? Confide in your monstera! They won’t judge (or at least, I don’t think they will…).
- Bonus: Plants are proven to reduce stress and boost your mood. Science says so!
- Double Bonus: They can even make your home look more stylish. Forget expensive artwork, just get yourself a fiddle leaf fig and watch the compliments roll in!
Ready to Embrace Your Inner Plant Parent?

So, what are you waiting for? Ditch that black thumb and join the wonderful world of plant parenthood! Trust me, it’s way more fun (and less messy) than you might think.

Now, tell me, what’s your biggest fear about becoming a plant parent? Let me know in the comments below!
March 13, 2025
The Time I Tried to Be a Morning Person (and Failed Spectacularly)
The 5:00 AM Pact (and My Immediate Betrayal)

My alarm clock sang its cheerful tune at 5:00 AM. Okay, “cheerful” might be a stretch. It was more like a digital rooster crowing directly into my ear. I’d made a pact with myself, you see. I was going to be one of those mythical creatures: a morning person.

This delusion usually strikes me once a year, usually after reading some article about the productivity secrets of CEOs who wake up before dawn. This time, it was an Instagram post showcasing a woman sipping lemon water in a sun-drenched yoga pose as a majestic sunrise painted the sky behind her. “This could be me,” I’d thought, blissfully ignorant of the sleep inertia that awaited me.

Back to the alarm. I smashed the snooze button with the fury of a thousand grumpy bears. Nine minutes later, the rooster crowed again. This cycle repeated itself until my actual, human-powered alarm (my six-year-old son) burst into my room demanding pancakes.

Operation Sunshine: My Failed Morning Routine Experiments

My initial failure didn’t deter me. Oh no, I had strategies! I researched the science of sleep cycles, invested in a sunrise alarm clock, and even tried that whole “going to bed early” nonsense (spoiler alert: Netflix always wins).

Here’s a glimpse into my week of valiant, albeit ridiculous, efforts:
1. Monday: Sunrise alarm clock. Verdict: Pleasant, but entirely ineffective at rousing a determined sleeper. I woke up at noon to the smell of burning toast (apparently, I also tried to make breakfast before going back to sleep).
2. Tuesday: Motivational mantra and vigorous exercise. Verdict: Managed to drag myself out of bed and through a 10-minute yoga video. Immediately rewarded myself with a nap on the yoga mat.
  
  March 13, 2025
The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

Plant Parent: My Story
Let’s be honest, I used to be a plant killer. I’m talking serial succulent assassin, notorious cactus crusher. If a plant had the misfortune of entering my home, its life expectancy plummeted faster than my patience during rush hour traffic. But something changed last year. Maybe it was the pandemic-induced need for some living, breathing company that wasn’t on a screen. Maybe it was a desperate attempt to bring some life into my apartment, which, let’s face it, resembled a very organized storage unit. Whatever it was, I decided to give plant parenthood another shot.

And guess what? I didn’t kill them! In fact, they thrived. And so did I. Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected joys.

Stress Relief: Finding Zen One Leaf at a Time

Remember that feeling of accomplishment you got from finishing a puzzle? Or the pure joy of finally conquering that impossible level on your favorite video game? That’s the feeling I get every time I see a new leaf unfurl on my monstera. It’s a small victory, sure, but it’s a victory nonetheless.

There’s something incredibly therapeutic about caring for plants. The act of watering, pruning, and even just observing them can melt away stress like sunshine on a snowdrift. And the best part? They don’t judge your messy bun or your questionable dance moves while you’re repotting them (unlike certain furry companions).

March 13, 2025
The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

From Black Thumb to Budding Botanist: My Houseplant Journey

Let’s be honest, my past attempts at keeping plants alive could be classified as “botanically challenged,” at best. I’m the queen of unintentional plant homicide. I once managed to kill a cactus. A CACTUS. So, when my well-meaning friend gifted me a houseplant – a sprightly little peace lily named Percy – I accepted with a smile and a silent prayer for the poor thing’s survival.

Plant Care
My first misconception was that Percy would thrive on benign neglect. Surely, a little water every now and then would suffice? Wrong. Percy quickly taught me the delicate dance of sunlight and hydration. Too much sun, and his leaves would crisp. Too little, and he’d droop like a disappointed parent.

I learned to read his subtle cues: the gentle tilt towards the window, the slight browning at the leaf tips. This little plant, incapable of speech, taught me the art of observation and patience. Who knew that nurturing a living thing required, well, actual nurturing?

Lesson #2: Silent Growth: The Power of Slow and Steady Progress

For weeks, it seemed like Percy was stuck in a perpetual state of “just existing.” No new leaves, no dramatic growth spurts, just…being. I was convinced I’d failed him, destined to add another victim to my plant graveyard. Then, one morning, I noticed it – a tiny, tightly furled leaf, peeking out from the base.

March 13, 2025
Beyond Time Blocking: 5 Unusual Productivity Hacks for Neurodivergent Minds
Beyond Time Blocking: 5 Unusual Productivity Hacks for Neurodivergent Minds

Introduction

The world of productivity is often geared towards neurotypical minds, leaving neurodivergent individuals feeling lost and overwhelmed. Traditional methods like time blocking, while effective for some, can feel rigid and anxiety-inducing for others. If you’re neurodivergent and struggling to find a productivity system that works for you, you’re not alone.

This article explores five unusual productivity hacks specifically designed to complement the unique strengths and challenges of neurodivergent minds. These strategies go beyond conventional approaches, offering practical and adaptable solutions to help you thrive.

1. Body Doubling: Harness the Power of Shared Presence

For many neurodivergent individuals, the simple act of having someone else present can significantly boost focus and motivation. This phenomenon, known as “body doubling,” can be surprisingly effective.

How Body Doubling Works:
- Find a friend, family member, or colleague who understands your needs.
- Work on your tasks in the same physical space, whether silently or with minimal interaction.
- The presence of another person can help minimize distractions, increase accountability, and provide a sense of shared purpose.
Body Doubling Example:

Instead of struggling to write a report alone, try working on it in a coffee shop where a friend is also working on their tasks. The shared energy and implicit accountability can make a world of difference.

2. Monotasking with Themed Days: Aligning Tasks with Energy Levels

Multitasking, often touted as a productivity holy grail, can be a recipe for disaster for neurodivergent individuals. The constant task switching can lead to overwhelm and reduced efficiency. Instead, embrace the power of monotasking by dedicating specific days to specific types of tasks.

How to Monotask with Themed Days:
- Identify your peak energy levels for different types of activities.
- Assign specific days of the week to focus on similar tasks. For example:
  - Mondays: Creative brainstorming and project planning
  - Tuesdays: Writing and content creation
  - Wednesdays: Meetings and collaborative work
- This approach allows you to leverage your natural energy flows and minimize mental friction from context switching.
Monotasking Example:

If you know you’re most creative in the mornings, schedule all your brainstorming and idea-generation sessions for the beginning of the week. Reserve afternoons for less demanding tasks like email or administrative work.

3. Gamifying Your To-Do List: Turning Chores into Challenges

Turning mundane tasks into engaging challenges can be a game-changer for neurodivergent individuals who thrive on novelty and stimulation. Gamification taps into our natural desire for rewards and accomplishment, making even the most tedious chores feel more manageable.

How to Gamify Your To-Do List:
- Use apps or create your own system to turn tasks into quests or challenges.
- Set rewards for completing tasks or reaching milestones.
- Track your progress visually to enhance motivation and a sense of achievement.
Gamification Example:

Instead of simply writing “clean the kitchen” on your to-do list, turn it into a game. Set a timer for 15 minutes and challenge yourself to see how much you can clean before it goes off. Reward yourself with a small treat or a break after completing the challenge.

March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)

Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story

Let’s be honest, folks. For the longest time, my thumbs were about as green as a lump of coal. I’m talking succulent homicide, peace lily massacre – you name it, I’d accidentally offed it. So, naturally, the thought of becoming a “plant parent” filled me with a special kind of dread, usually reserved for trips to the dentist and doing my taxes.

But then, something magical happened. My well-meaning but misguided friend gifted me a scraggly little peace lily for my birthday. Figuring it was already half-dead, I did the bare minimum: watered it occasionally, whispered apologies when I forgot, and basically hoped for the best.

plant. That’s when it hit me: maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t destined for a life of horticultural homicide. Maybe, with a little effort (and a lot of Google searches), even I could experience the joys of plant parenthood.

Why You Should Become a Plant Parent: Joy #1 – Plants are the Chillest Roommates

Forget noisy neighbors, passive-aggressive roommates, or significant others who leave dirty socks on the floor. Plants are the ultimate low-maintenance companions. They don’t care if your apartment is a mess, they won’t judge your questionable taste in music, and they’ll never steal your leftovers.

Seriously, all they ask for is a little sunlight, some water, and maybe a pep talk now and then (don’t judge, it works for me!). In return, they’ll purify your air, add a touch of life and color to your space, and make you feel like a domestic goddess/god who has their life together (even if you secretly don’t, like me!).

Benefit #2 of Plant Parenthood: Watching Your Plant Babies Grow is Therapeutic

Remember that feeling of accomplishment you got from completing a 1,000-piece puzzle? Or finally finishing that Netflix series you were binge-watching? Well, watching your plant babies sprout new leaves, unfurl delicate blooms, or even just stubbornly cling to life is surprisingly similar.

It’s like a tiny reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, growth and beauty are still possible. Plus, there’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your plants – it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and forget about your worries for a while (unless, of course, you’re worried about overwatering, but that’s a story for another time).

March 13, 2025
The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

houseplant casually perched on a shelf, radiating an aura of effortless serenity.

“I need that,” I told myself, gazing at my own reflection in the dusty monitor. “A plant. That’s what’s missing from my life.”

Operation Green Thumb: From Enthusiasm to Near-Disaster

My journey into the world of indoor greenery started with the same enthusiasm I reserve for starting (and promptly abandoning) ambitious knitting projects. I envisioned myself as a modern-day plant whisperer, nurturing life and cultivating an oasis of calm in my otherwise chaotic apartment.

plant mister (because, you know, humidity). My new leafy roommate seemed happy, even sprouting a new leaf. “See,” I told my skeptical cat, “I told you I could do this!”

Then, life happened. Work deadlines piled up, social engagements filled my calendar, and my well-intentioned plant care routine flew out the window faster than you can say “overwatering.”

Lesson #1: Neglect Taught Me About Resilience

I’m ashamed to admit it, but there were weeks when my poor plant didn’t see a single drop of water. Its once-vibrant leaves drooped, turning a sickly shade of yellow. I felt a pang of guilt, of course, but mostly, I felt like a failure.

But then, something interesting happened. Just when I was about to give up and relegate my poor plant to the compost bin of forgotten dreams, I noticed something: a tiny green shoot emerging from the base. It was as if the plant was saying, “Hey, I’m still here! I’m not giving up on you, so don’t give up on me!”

That’s when it hit me: even when neglected, even when we feel like we’re wilting under the pressures of life, there’s a resilience within us that can’t be extinguished. Sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of hope—a tiny green shoot—to remind us that we’re capable of bouncing back.

Lesson #2: Houseplants (and Life) Thrive with Less Control

After my near-death experience with my plant (sorry, buddy!), I decided to do some research. Turns out, overwatering is a rookie mistake. Who knew?

March 13, 2025
The Time I Tried to Be a Morning Person (and Failed Spectacularly)

The Time I Tried to Be a Morning Person (and Failed Spectacularly)

We’ve all seen them—those infuriatingly chipper morning people who practically bounce out of bed, chirping about sunshine and productivity. I’m not one of them. I’m a card-carrying member of the Night Owls Association, where the motto is “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” (which, ironically, might be sooner than later if I keep up my nocturnal habits).

But recently, seduced by promises of increased productivity, boundless energy, and maybe even the ability to make a decent breakfast for once, I decided to embark on a noble and possibly foolish quest: become a morning person.

The Great Alarm Clock Standoff of 2023

My first mistake, I now realize, was going all-in on day one. I set my alarm for 5:00 AM, a full three hours earlier than my usual wake-up time. I even downloaded one of those apps that makes you solve math problems to turn it off. (Let me tell you, nothing screams “I hate the world” like long division at the crack of dawn.)

Yoga Fail: My Downward Dog Was More Like a Dying Walrus
The internet, in all its infinite wisdom, assured me that the key to becoming a morning person was establishing a positive morning routine. So, naturally, I signed up for a 6:00 AM yoga class.

Now, I’m not sure what I expected. Maybe some graceful stretching as the sun gently peeked over the horizon, bathing me in its golden rays. What I got was a dimly lit studio full of terrifyingly alert individuals who looked like they’d already run a marathon and filed their taxes before I even managed to get dressed.

March 13, 2025
The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Let’s be honest, before I discovered the wonderful world of plants, my thumbs were about as green as a charcoal briquette. I’d managed to kill a cactus, for crying out loud! But something changed last year. Maybe it was the pandemic-induced need for a connection to nature, or maybe it was just pure boredom, but I decided to give this whole plant thing another go. And boy, am I glad I did!

Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected joys, benefits I never saw coming. So, if you’re on the fence about joining the club, let me share some reasons why you absolutely should.

Stress Relief: Watch Your Worries Evaporate with Plants

Remember that feeling you get when you finally clock out after a long day? Now imagine that feeling, but instead of collapsing on the couch, you’re surrounded by lush greenery, the air filled with the subtle scent of fresh soil. That’s the magic of plants, my friends.

Studies have shown that being around plants can actually reduce stress hormones. Something about nurturing another living thing, even if it only communicates through subtle growth spurts, just melts away the tension. Plus, caring for plants provides a welcome distraction from the daily grind. It’s like meditation, but with more leaves.

March 13, 2025
The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant

My Thumb Isn’t So Green

Okay, let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my gardening prowess. In fact, my idea of “communing with nature” involves admiring the perfectly manicured lawns of my neighbors from the comfort of my air-conditioned living room. So, when my well-intentioned friend gifted me a houseplant for my birthday, I accepted it with a smile…and a healthy dose of apprehension.

This wasn’t just any houseplant, mind you. This was a delicate, leafy creature with a Latin name I couldn’t pronounce and care instructions longer than my grocery list. I’m pretty sure my friend even winked and said something about “seeing if I could keep something alive for once.” Challenge accepted, I thought, little realizing the profound impact this little pot of chlorophyll would have on my life.

plant, bless its heart, responded with a series of dramatic wilts, drooping leaves, and suspicious brown spots.

Just when I was about to toss in the trowel (figuratively, of course, because I’m not sure I even own a trowel), I had an epiphany: Google! Turns out, there’s an entire online community dedicated to keeping houseplants alive, complete with forums, blog posts, and even YouTube tutorials. Imagine that!

Armed with newfound knowledge and a healthy dose of humility, I adjusted my approach. I learned about proper drainage, the importance of sunlight (who knew?), and the delicate art of fertilizing. Slowly but surely, my plant started to thrive. It even sprouted a new leaf, which I may or may not have teared up over.

This seemingly insignificant victory taught me a valuable lesson about patience. Just like nurturing a plant takes time and consistent effort, so too does achieving our goals in life. It’s about taking small steps, learning from our mistakes, and never giving up hope, even when things seem bleak.

Lesson #2: Even the Strongest Need Support

As my plant grew taller and more vibrant, I noticed something interesting. Its stems, once sturdy and upright, were starting to lean towards the sunlight. It seemed my little green friend needed a little help staying upright.

Enter the humble plant stake. With a little bit of support, my plant was able to stand tall and reach its full potential. It was a simple act, but it got me thinking about the importance of support in our own lives.

We all need people in our corner, cheering us on, offering a helping hand, or simply lending an ear when things get tough. Whether it’s our family, friends, mentors, or even a supportive online community, having a strong support system can make all the difference in the world.

March 13, 2025