Back in the 1960s, California Dreamin’ was more of a lifestyle than a West Coast fad. More than a half-century later, people of all ages are still searching for ways to enhance their peace of mind and get more out of each day of life. Fortunately, technological, and social advances have made it easier than ever to achieve those goals. In the 2020s, millions of open-minded adults are discovering the wonders of float tanks, home elevators, visits to the ocean, live theater, unplugging from technology, deep meditation, weekend hiking, and dozens of other expansive activities and products. The following ideas represent some of today’s most popular choices for anyone who cherishes true peace of mind.
Book a Float Tank Session
Float tanks have been around for decades, but recent advances in technology have made them more affordable for service providers and individuals who install the tanks in their homes. Prices for float sessions, which last about 60 minutes, have come down in the past few years as shop owners seek to entice a new generation of users. In the 1970s, the units were marketed as sensory deprivation tanks, which is a misnomer but conveys the general idea behind the experience.
Users, far from being deprived of all physical sensations, enjoy a totally quiet, dark, comfortable hour while the saltwater supports their bodies and keeps them in a temperature neutral environment. In a way, floating is the ultimate form of relaxation, and those who try it once usually return for more. Most larger cities have several float tank facilities, and sessions cost about the same as a one-hour body massage.
Install a Home Elevator
A decade ago, home elevators were not part of the national consciousness, but today, they are priced right and are gaining in popularity among homeowners everywhere. Some of the leading companies in the niche like Stiltz are witnessing a golden age of lift installation among individuals who value the safety, appearance, and affordability of sleek units. Part of the allure is related to the quest for living spaces that don’t require the use of staircases. As the over-60 segment of the population continues to grow, more middle-aged and retired adults are choosing to install home elevators.
Not only do private elevators do away with the need to traverse potentially dangerous steps multiple times per day, but they also add substantially to the aesthetic of any living space. Owners who pay attention to property value are sometimes surprised to discover that a residential elevator can raise property values significantly under certain market conditions. But it’s the classy look and convenient aspect of the units that is the main motivator for those who put elevators in their homes in the 2020s.
Connect with the Ocean
You don’t need to live in The Golden State to benefit from regular visits to the ocean. The goal is to get to the shoreline at least a few times per year, or more if you’re lucky enough to reside in a coastal city. Regardless of the frequency, trips to the ocean have an eerie power to rejuvenate the soul, energize the mind, and nourish the emotions. All over the world, people trek to the seaside to just sit and look at the water as it ebbs and flows against the land.
There’s something essentially human about wanting to be near the earth’s large bodies of water. No matter how you choose to connect with the ocean, try to do so at different times of the day, particularly at sunset and sunrise. Notice the aroma of the seawater, feel the wind that comes off its surface, listen to the ancient rhythm of the soft roar, and feast your eyes upon the endless gyrations of the waves. Making a personal connection with the sea can bring profound peace and healing to the mind and body under almost any circumstances.
Unplug One Day Each Week
Technology has a way of making the human mind weary. Sometimes, the effect can be quite subtle, but individuals usually notice it eventually. Don’t wait for the warning lights to start blinking in your mind. Prevent the deleterious consequences of tech burnout by unplugging from all electronic devices for a few hours or an entire day every week. Consider setting special time aside for the purpose.
Turn off phones, tablets, gaming consoles, music devices of all kinds, laptops, interactive household devices, and every computerized product you own. It’s much easier to unplug if you travel to a remote area, like a beach or suburban park. Remember to lock your car and store phones and devices in a secure location while you take a walk, spend time at a lakeside, or enjoy a full day of camping.
Attend Local Theater Productions
Live theater is like a balm for the human soul. Since ancient times, people have attended live stage productions and come away feeling better, invigorated, and changed in positive ways. Check out the local theater scene and keep an open mind. Consider attending youth productions, operas, experimental plays, summer stock theater, musicals, and whatever is available.
Join an In-Person Book Club
In the age of high technology, in-person discussion groups are making a comeback. Maybe it’s the person-to-person connection or the chance to take part in authentic, uncensored conversations with others who value the written word. There are active book clubs in most cities. Find one that stretches your boundaries and deals with subjects that are new to you or that you know little about. Clubs welcome people of all experience levels and ages, so don’t let your first-timer status get in the way of an expansive, enjoyable adventure.
Learn Deep Meditation Techniques
Consider moving beyond everyday meditation sessions and exploring deeper states of mind. There are deep meditation clubs everywhere for an in-person experience. If you can’t find one, try an online version of the technique. Within a few days of practicing, many individuals find that they can achieve states of total relaxation of both mind and body. Most groups are non-faith-based, but some focus on Buddhism, Hinduism, or other popular traditions.
