What you like to do during your commute

Getting to and from work is a challenge. A horrible commute can start the day off on a bad note. Living in Tokyo especially is particularly challenging as the city is quite crowded, and so too are the trains. As a way of dealing with overcrowded trains, I try to do things that allow me to relax during my commute.

During my commute, there are a few things I like to do. I enjoy listening to music and podcasts, as well as reading and watching movies. These are all ways that allow me to relax in an environment where I would otherwise be unable to do so.

I enjoy music as it relaxes and refreshes the mind. Listening to music on the commute is very relaxing. I enjoy all genres of music, from reggae to classical. The type of music I listen to depends on the time of day, day of the week and the mood I’m in. For instance, on a Monday morning I’ll usually listen to songs that are motivational and spiritually uplifting as it allows me to mentally prepare for the day ahead. It is also the start of the week and this gets me prepared to face any challenges that might be ahead. However, on a Friday I am more likely to listen to upbeat songs. This is because on a Friday, I am celebrating the fact that a long week has ended and I can look forward to the weekend.

I also enjoy listening to different podcasts on health or personal development skills. This is because I am always looking for ways to improve myself and during the day I don’t often have time. By listening to these during my morning commute, I can mentally plan a way forward and this undoubtedly puts me in a good mood for the rest of the day. You might be surprised to know the effect of listening to a positive message on the train versus focusing on the overcrowded, and sometimes hostile, space that you are in.

Another thing that I particularly enjoy doing during my commute is watching movies or sitcoms. I enjoy doing this especially during the evenings, as at that time I really want to watch or listen to something that doesn’t require a lot of brainpower and I can enjoy after a long day. I feel rather unnerved if I am on the train without access to my phone. I do not like crowded places and it helps to keep me distracted. By watching movies, I can immerse myself in the story and leave the reality that is the train. Watching movies on the commute home is also a very important step at the end of my day. This is the start of my winding down process at the end of the day. It is usually followed by a long bath or a good glass of wine at home. If I don’t watch my favorite sitcom on my way home, I have to do it once I’m at home and that cuts into my quiet relaxation time.

One hobby of mine is writing and I also sometimes do that during my commute. I mostly write for myself, that requires little effort. But I sometimes share what I write with others and I tend to come up with ideas about what to write during my commute. Sometimes, I am even able to finish writing an article during that time. Being on the train allows me to be with my thoughts and that’s one good thing that I get from my commute. I find it is best to try and make the commute as bearable as possible by doing things you enjoy.

Keneisha

Vocabulary

motivational (adj.) ? designed to promote the desire or willingness to do or achieve something
hostile (adj.) ? showing or feeling dislike; unfriendly
unnerve (v) ? to make someone feel less confident and slightly frightened
immerse (v) ? to involve oneself deeply in a particular activity
wind down (phr. v) ? to gradually relax after doing something that has made you tired or worried