Often we find that we take our senses for granted. We are gifted with potent tools, and we are so used to them simply working, that often it isn’t until something happens that we realize how much we have taken them for granted. Over time they will deteriorate, simply with age, if you aren’t taking steps to protect them you will likely find you need a hearing aid, glasses or need more regular testing – click here for more information about that.
If you want to keep your senses sharp and really enjoy them, then here is a list of fun things that you can do.
Photo by Solstice Hannan on Unsplash
Sight
There is nothing as enjoyable as watching a great movie, soaking in the sights on vacation, looking at the faces of the people you love. But how often so you glance, rather than soak it in. Next time someone says to you ‘look at this’ really take the time to look. Pay keen attention to the details both big and small. But take care of your eyes too. Know that like the rest of your body they will need to rest. You can purchase warming eye masks that will help the muscles around your eye relax. Massage your temples often. Don’t force your eyes to focus when you’re already tired, this will lead to straining them.
Hearing
Your hearing is something that will deteriorate over time, but you can take preventative measures to keep it in good condition for as long as possible. You should enjoy your hearing as much of your life as you can. If you happen to have hearing impairments, then you might consider having implants or a hearing aid to improve it. Enjoying your hearing can come in the form of listening to your favor of music via your favorite method. For example, if you listen via headphones, you should listen for no more than 60 minutes and at only 60% of the volume possible. Another thing you can enjoy is the silence. Listening to the peace and quiet in the early hours of the morning is a joy that you can indulge in as often as you like.
Smell
Taking a deep breath of the coffee that is brewing in your kitchen, the smell of autumn in the air, the perfume your nana used to wear as it wafts by on the street. Smell is truly the thing that takes us back to points in time. Doctors call this scent therapy. Regularly taking deep nasal inhales of things like coffee grounds, dried herbs, and citrus fruits are great for really working those nose muscles. A keen sense of smell offers even more taste from your food too.
Touch
The ability to feel hot and cold, the pattern on lace, the softness of silk and event he stingers on nettles. It is all about touch. Holding hands with your children or partner. Are all things that you love to do but how often do you consider how cool that sense really is. Next time you are doing something like putting on your seatbelt, making bread, of getting dressed, then take a moment to absorb how that really feels.
Taste
Give your taste buds a party, simply try different foods. Spicy, sweet, salty, and sour. Research umami too. Try and eat fresh ingredients, things that have been pickled, and have a range of different textures. Consider the flavor as you are eating. Cheese is often smooth, but when you really pay attention, you might find salt crystals, and the creamy texture varies based on the age and location. Imagine not being able to taste your favorite food!
When it comes to making the most of your senses, it is all about enjoying what you have.!
This post was a collaboration.