You split the apple in symmetrical lines, not the other way around!
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Crazy lights and shooting stars (if the smog isn’t obstructing the view, that is), Manila’s gritty and fast-paced energy can leave us feeling so exuberant to do more than we could that we forget to breathe. Everyone’s onto the next big thing– from hopping on the newest vintage flea market to taking a snap of the brat walls that swarmed Manila streets– not to mention the need to imprint our names is both daunting yet so fast; we are left with no choice but to move in two times speed to not lose shine.
Or, like with many of us, we’re just trying to survive the city, the never-ending traffic, high prices, and generally slog through what we call modern living in order to not get eaten up by the system.
This is especially true to those who recently moved to the Metro. All of our lives packed in our old highschool Jansports backpack or older siblings’ suitcase, and just like in the telenovelas, we treat the world as our oyster.
But the idea of slowing down and being ambitious is not black and white; if anything, they’re symbiotic to each other. Reality and dreams will always co-exist, and it’s just a matter of finessing our flow in its streams. Living in the big city as a young and impressionable Gen Z can make you feel as if you want to do more, or struggle with the many demands the Metro has in store for you.
This is why it’s needed to have that time and space to separate yourself from the rigors of Manila. So, scroll down for a few ways to slow down in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the Metro.
INVEST IN A DIARY
Contrary to popular belief, diaries are still in. It’s your quintessential thought daughters and sons staple. There’s something intricately sacred about weaving out each and every crevice of your feelings for your own consumption only, instead of the usual rant session in the group chat or on a private X account.
Writing about anything under the sun and even junk journaling can cleanse your mind. A fun little prompt for the day to write about is also a good tip! So make sure to still talk to your heart and mind through the flip of a paper, you may be surprised.
REKINDLE OLD HOBBIES
Yes, it’s hard to find the time, but even just consuming media about it can sometimes do the trick already. It can be as simple as dressing up just for fun, watching baking videos, or listening to a podcast about your niche interest. Picking up pieces of what used to interest you can ironically gear you up for better, novel ideas and hobbies!
On my end, finding the time to play the old PSP games I was obsessed with as a kid is a different kind of exciting seeing it as a college student now. In a way, it makes me full of gratitude, knowing that those nostalgic playtimes can still happen.
SEEK OUT COMFORT
In everything you do, a treat is a must-have afterwards; whatever that may be. It can be your all-time favorite series to binge, a food combo you’re very particular about, or a nice, long sleep. Even as you work on your school project or organize your excel sheet, a comforting cup of your favorite drink can help to have your moment of silence.
This also goes for those who may feel pressured to document everything on social media. Rest assured, the memories you love will stay with you, and it’s not always a necessity to capitalize your nice dinner for likes.
HAVE A REAL DAY-OFF
Sometimes, weekends can feel like a mere preparation for the upcoming week and rest is suddenly thrown out of the picture. Having a strict schedule for rest should be the new trend. It’s not always about grinding our gears off! It should also be about laying softly and meditating. On that note, shutting off notifications should be normalized, especially when you already feel anxiety creep in. This goes for not just messages, but also the spams of emails to rid mind clutter.
KEEP IN TOUCH
Finally, there’s nothing like a good yap session with your friends. The topics are boundless and reach all sorts of worlds whenever you’re with the right people; and a good laugh is always a heartfelt way to loosen tension and pressures. And for others, staying silent with loved ones can bring you back to your senses. Conversations are free-flowing and should never be forced. Quietude is love in its own charming way.
As a final reminder, the city, in all of its overcrowded glory and lightning, will always be there, so don’t rush. Trust whatever’s meant for you.
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