Read a novel

Not work related. A novel.

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Perhaps something escapist – whatever floats your boat, whether that’s romance, fantasy, sci-fi – or Liane Moriarty. The benefit of reading fiction in particular is that it helps you immerse yourself in an alternate reality.

And in light of recent turbulent global affairs, taking a break from your phone to read a book could be a welcome reprieve.

Journaling

There are countless prompts out there if you get writer’s block, ranging from to-do lists and prompts to help organise life admin tasks, to goals and gratitude journaling.

Similarly, daily journaling rituals can such as “Morning Pages” have been popularised due to their stream of consciousness approach. Given its popularity with celebrities, including Olivia Rodrigo, Bella Hadid, and Reese Witherspoon, it’s a great way to elevate your commute.

Do your “morning pages” and write three pages of thoughts as they come to you in the morning, by hand every day. While it may be challenging to consistently write while the bus or train is moving, writing candidly whatever thoughts that spring to mind can help clear your head on your morning and afternoon commute, and ensure you arrive at your destination with a clean mental slate.

Pick up a crochet hook

Train travel in the 80s was punctuated by the sound of clacking needles, but knitting on trains fell out of favour in the intervening years. You don’t have to be particularly skilled to give it a try – there are plenty of kits available – but handiwork with smaller tools, such as crocheting could be the ultimate in portable craft.

Crocheting and needlework such as embroidery and cross-stitch experienced a resurgence in popularity during COVID-19 lockdowns a few years ago, enjoyed for its calming nature and affordability. This trend in particular picked up much steam among people looking to DIY their own clothes, bags, and keyrings.

Doing something hands-on is a useful mindfulness technique, diverting attention from the stressors of everyday life. Fardouly says, “engaging in offline activities that take the focus off [stress] is helpful”, and could help boost your mood and mentality. Crafters also report it’s highly addictive.

Practise mindfulness and rest

In a busy world, there’s always pressure to feel productive, but allowing your brain to rest is beneficial to both mind and body. And PT is the perfect place to do it.

Find yourself a seat, be still, and calm your mind – until you reach your stop.

“People are so busy – you’re trying to be efficient with the time that you have [on public transport]. It’s a broader issue when it comes to being on screens, we have so many competing tasks and priorities,” Fardouly says.

“Any way that people take to engage in the here and now, such as focusing on internal body cues and reconnecting to their inner self, is positive.”

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