11 May 2020

2020 didn't really pan out how I thought. I mean, never in a million years did I think I'd be writing an article about things I took for granted before I'd be self-isolated thanks to a global pandemic... this is so wack, I feel like I'm in an episode of Round The Twist.

But alas, here we are. At least a lesson has come out of isolation so far: you don't truly appreciate something until it's taken away. 

Here are the things I will appreciate SO much more and the things I took for granted before I knew what sh*tstorm was coming.

 

1. Busy vibes

There is something I adore about hustle and bustle. Busy streets. Jampacked venues. It's all music to my ears and brings warmth to my heart.

I guess I took for granted wandering through a jostling and crowded market or a beach chocker blocked with people.

I miss background noises of small talk, bumping into people I know and smiling at people I meet eyes with. 

2. Hugs

As a very touchy-feely person, I took for granted how magical a hug can be. They're transcendental. I mean, they literally make you happier as they release the chemical 'oxytocin' in our body, which rises when we hug, touch or sit close to someone else. Oxytocin is associated with happiness and less stress.

My oxytocin levels are savagely low! I just wanna hug my friends and fam, please and thanks!

3. Meals out

I used to eat out on the reg. I loved to read a book in my fave cafe whilst eating a delicious brekkie. I loved smashing some Mexican food with my mates, sharing our life updates and escapades.

Food is obviously the bomb@hotmail.com. Eating food out is even better. Whether it's a gnarly meal, good company or groovy vibes, I definitely took for granted the privilege to wine and dine outside.

4. Uni 

Who would have thought I'd actually miss uni... that's when you know the world has gone upside-down.

But there, I said it, I miss being in an actual classroom with actual people. I miss studying in the library and mucking around between lectures.

As an extrovert, studying from home eliminates the best parts of uni. When I'm able to return to my campus, I'll be sure to spend less time complaining about assessments and dull lectures, and more time appreciating that I'm there irl. 

5. Live music

I knew that things had hit the fan when my favourite festival 'BAD FRIDAY' was cancelled. I negged out for a while after that.

Live music is my favourite social experience. On the reg, my mates and I would hit up our fave venue to see our fave band. I miss basically getting tinnitus because I stood too close to the amps and getting multiple blisters on my feet from boogieing too hard. 

Festivals, gigs, concerts... I cannot wait to be a groupie again.

6. Travelling

I definitely took for granted the spontaneity and freedom that I had and travelling is something I especially miss. Even if it's not on a plane to another continent, I can't wait for my mate to call me up and say: "let's go up the coast for the weekend." 

7. Cinemas

There is something so special, nostalgic and wholesome about lining up to buy film tickets, grabbing popcorn and snacks that cost the price of Jesus' tears and sitting in a cinema for two hours. 

No distractions from phones or people (unless your mate spends the whole time saying: "wait, what's happening?") Just pure immersion and escapism in the movie.

At least, when the world transitions back to normal, we'll all be so much more appreciative of the things we momentarily lost. Until then, let's reminiscise!