Hong Kong, with its rapid pace of life, can be synonymous with stress. These experiences can pour into our lives as adults, and seep out into the lives of our kids, which is less than ideal. Creating opportunities for relaxation and connection helps significantly improve family dynamics. Here are some ways you can unwind with your family and enjoy quality time together in busy Hong Kong, (sans too much screen time)
Create a Healthy Home Environment
The environment we live in can greatly influence our stress levels. Messiness elevates mine! Start by making positive changes at home:
Declutter: A tidy space can promote a sense of calm. Involve your children in cleaning and organising shared spaces. The valuable lesson here is modelling for our children how we can control our environment when feeling stressed.
Relaxing Spaces: Designate areas in your home for relaxation, such as a cosy reading nook or a family game area. Each person in the family could have their little spot to sit, chill, read or play a game. And in tiny living spaces, a couple of cushions could mark that spot.
Have you tried Quiet Time?
Sometimes our children need their own space and time to do mindful things to quieten their minds and calm their bodies.
Practice Mindfulness: Sit together and show your children how to take deep, cleansing breaths. Guided breathing exercises are aplenty online. Do not worry if initially your children can only sit for 3 mins. Regular togetherness builds routines.
Mindful drawing or journaling: Do you remember the time when you could leave your child for hours doodling or colouring in their favourite cartoons? Children know how to be in the moment. Doing this together even for 10 mins help quieten the mind and bring stress down.
Schedule Regular Big Picture Conversations
If you notice your children looking worried or stressed, initiate conversations about their feelings. Regular family discussions can help everyone understand and address stressors together. However, pre-teens and teens might like a little more space instead of mum and dad constantly asking if they're ok. A fine balance, but...
Open Communication: Foster an environment where your children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. This open, non-judgmental dialogue is just as vital as maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring adequate sleep.
Problem-Solving Together: Encourage your kids, especially teens, to express their worries and brainstorm solutions as a family. There are times when our teens might feel we do not understand them despite trying to problem-solve. That's ok. This collaborative approach does not always mean we have to solve their problem but it helps strengthen family bonds and remind your children you are there for them.
Take Steps to Be Healthy and Active
Physical activity is a fantastic way to relieve stress and improve overall well-being. Alright, it is really hot right now but when the weather cools, try exploring the great outdoors a little more:
Hiking: I am thankful for the beautiful trails of Hong Kong, such as the Dragon's Back or Lamma Island. Hiking not only promotes physical health but also allows for family bonding amidst nature. But I've found that brisk walking in malls work well, too, with reluctant children.
Swimming: Beat the heat by visiting one of Hong Kong's unique outdoor public swimming pools. Some fun to be had by all. During the winter months, check out the city's best indoor pools for year-round fun.
Cycling: Escape the urban concrete jungle by cycling together. Explore scenic trails in Tseung Kwan O or the New Territories, making it a fun adventure for the whole family. Though as parents, we may build up excitement and lead with great expectations. Be mindful of your reponse if things do not always go as planned.
Spend Time with Animals
Connecting with animals can be incredibly therapeutic and can teach children compassion:
Spot the Pink Dolphins: Join a tour with Hong Kong Dolphin Watch to see the beautiful pink dolphins in their natural habitat. Nothing beats some fresh air, and salty waves.
Volunteer at an Animal Rescue shelter: Familiarity breds empathy and the more we are in touch with caring and nurturing through volunteering, the more we help ourselves and others. Engaging with animals at local dog shelters like Hong Kong Dog Rescue or the SPCA can be a wonderful way to destress.
Plan a Picnic
A picnic is a simple yet effective way to enjoy family time outdoors. I love sitting on a mat, staring into the distance, watching my child play with a friend.
Tamar Park: Located on the waterfront, Tamar Park offers stunning harbour views and plenty of grassy space for kids to play. It’s a perfect spot for a family picnic.
West Kowloon Art Park: This park not only provides beautiful sunset views but also has fresh grassy patches ideal for picnics. Rent bikes here for added fun and teach your kids how to ride.
And in the hot, hot months, picnics at home, at a friend's or in the pool area of your building still work well.
Destressing with your family in Hong Kong is not just about escaping the hustle and bustle; it's about creating meaningful connections and fostering a healthy environment. Through creating a calming home environment, encouraging open communication, engaging in physical activities, practicing quiet time, spending time with animals, planning picnics —you can enhance your family's well-being and strengthen your relationships.
Remember, the key to a healthy family dynamic is not just about managing stress but also about enjoying each other's company and making the most of your time together. Want time for yourself to destress? Join us in our 3-month inward journey of Pause.Breath.Reset.
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