5 Things you could be spending your train rides doing

Whether you bus, car, bike, walk or get pushed uncomfortably close to the person next to you on the train — whatever your mode of transport — it is good opportunity to make productive use of travel time!

So if you’re tired of scrolling through Instagram or checking work emails to pass time we’ve arranged a list of things you could be spending your time doing!

1. Learn

We’ve all heard it before, the greatest investment one can make is in themselves. If you want to have a more productive commute set yourself a challenge of something you want to learn. Whether it be reading self-improvement books, listening to podcasts or working on a passion project, investing in yourself is sure to make you look forward to your train rides!

2. Write a Gratitude List

Ok before you stop reading because we sound like one of those clingy inspirational people who tell you to wake up at 5am, hear us out a bit. Neurologically gratitude is one of the best things we can do for our brain, it places our brain in a more positive frame of mind and in many people produces a euphoric feeling. It’s a great way to ground yourself for the day and only takes 5 minutes of your time. I know this sounds a bit cheesy but next time you have a spare few minutes, pull out a piece of paper and write 5 things you are grateful for, try make it a habit. You don’t know if you don’t try!

3. Power Nap

This should hopefully come before your morning coffee but a power nap is a great natural way to boost your energy levels. Studies have shown that 10 to 15 minute naps can produce positive effects for the mind and the body. Don’t forget to set your alarm though!

4. Create your to-do list and set goals for the day.

It’s very rare that you ever hear someone say ‘I have too much time’, in the 21st century people are largely very time poor. Organising your day is a great way to ensure you have enough time to get through everything and can create more direction and productivity. After all there’s not many more satisfying things then crossing off items from your to-do list. Setting goals for the day is also linked to creating more clarity in decision making, giving a sense of purpose and proving motivation!

5. Meditation

Now if we went through all the scientific benefits of meditation this would be a book instead of a short blog, however it is something you should definitely try. With conversation on the train becoming increasingly rarer, the chances are you will probably have the quiet you need. There are a bunch of free meditation websites on the web and it’s a practise that can really help ground your day and give your mind a rest.

If you have anything cool or quirky you spend your commutes doing, as always let us know by leaving a comment or drop us an email at social@hampr.com.au.