Cottagecore Meets Self-Care: How Stepping Away from Technology Can Improve our Wellbeing

 

In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, it's easy to become consumed by the constant notifications, updates, and messages that flood our screens. We are constantly connected and accessible, but this constant connection can lead to feelings of burnout, stress, and anxiety. That's where the concept of "Cottagecore" comes in.

Disconnecting from technology and the constant stimulation it provides can be the key to reconnecting with ourselves, our loved ones, and the world around us. This is not only beneficial for our mental and physical health, but it can also lead to deeper and more meaningful connections in our personal and professional lives. In this article, we'll explore how embracing Cottagecore principles can improve our overall well-being and help us find balance.

The Negative Impact of Technology on Our Wellbeing

Technology has revolutionized the way we live and work, making it easier to stay connected and productive. However, it has also created new challenges for our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that excessive screen time can lead to:

1. Insomnia and poor sleep quality

The blue light emitted by electronic devices can disrupt the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep, which can lead to insomnia and other sleep disorders.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 2021 found that higher levels of screen time were associated with worse sleep outcomes, including longer sleep onset latency, shorter sleep duration, and poorer sleep quality, in young adults.

2. Headaches and eye strain

According to a study published in the journal JAMA Ophthalmology, nearly 70% of adults experience symptoms of digital eye strain, such as headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision, as a result of prolonged screen use. Additionally, a survey conducted by the American Optometric Association found that 63% of adults reported experiencing headaches as a result of prolonged computer use. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of factors, such as glare, poor lighting, and improper viewing distances.

3. Increased stress and anxiety

A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that excessive social media use was associated with increased symptoms of mental health issues.Specifically, the study found that excessive social media use was associated with a higher level of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms, and lower level of self-esteem. This research suggests that there is a potential negative impact of excessive social media use on mental health, and highlights the importance of monitoring and managing one's social media use.

4. Decreased attention span and cognitive function

Decreased attention span and cognitive function refer to the ability to focus, pay attention, and process information effectively. These abilities are important for completing tasks, learning, and overall cognitive functioning. A decrease in attention span and cognitive function can have a negative impact on an individual's daily life, including school or work performance, relationships, and overall well-being. Several factors can contribute to decreased attention span and cognitive function, including lack of sleep, stress, poor nutrition, and excessive screen time. Research has shown that prolonged use of electronic devices and excessive screen time can lead to a decrease in attention span and cognitive function. This is because the constant stimulation and distraction provided by electronic devices can make it difficult for the brain to focus on a single task for an extended period of time.

5. Social isolation and loneliness

The excessive use of technology can lead to social isolation and loneliness, as people spend less time interacting with others in person and more time communicating online.

A 2019 study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry found that individuals who spent more than two hours per day on social media had twice the odds of reporting social isolation compared to those who spent less than 30 minutes per day on social media.It's important to note that these statistics are correlational and do not imply causality. However, they do suggest a strong association between excessive screen time and increased risk of social isolation and loneliness.

Average Screen Time per day

According to a survey by the Nielsen Company in 2019, the average American adult spent around 11 hours per day consuming media across all devices. A study by the American Psychological Association found that people who spend more than 7 hours a day on screens are three times more likely to have symptoms of anxiety or depression than those who spend less than an hour a day on screens. It is important to note that the relationship between screen time and anxiety is complex, and other factors such as age, gender, and pre-existing mental health conditions may also play a role.

How does embracing Cottagecore principles help in overall well-being?

Cottagecore is a lifestyle movement that encourages individuals to escape from technology and modern conveniences, and instead focus on simplicity, nature, and self-care. This movement has gained popularity in recent years, as people look for ways to disconnect and promote overall wellness. Embracing Cottagecore principles can help improve overall well-being by providing an opportunity to escape the chaos and stress of modern life and reconnect with nature and simpler ways of living. This can lead to a reduction in feelings of burnout, stress and anxiety and an improvement in balance in one's life.

Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on our mental and physical well-being, and that nature can have a calming effect on our bodies and minds. For example, a study by the University of Sussex found that spending just two hours in nature a week can lead to a significant reduction in stress levels. Another study by the University of Utah found that people who spend more time in nature have lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. In addition, a study by the University of Queensland found that people who live near green spaces have lower levels of stress and better mental health than those who live in more urban areas. These studies support the idea that reconnecting with nature and simpler ways of living can have a positive impact on stress levels and overall well-being.

Cottagecore also encourages us to focus on self-care. This can include activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling. These activities can help us to relax, reduce stress, and improve our overall well-being.

Can Cottagecore be applied to technology use?

Cottagecore principles can be applied to technology use by setting limits on screen time and intentionally disconnecting from technology regularly to spend more time in nature or engaging in traditional crafts and activities. Some examples of traditional crafts and activities that align with Cottagecore principles include gardening, knitting, baking, woodworking, painting and pottery.

It's important to note that embracing Cottagecore doesn't mean completely disconnecting from technology or modern conveniences. It's about finding a balance and being mindful of our technology use. It's about stepping away from technology when it's necessary and focusing on self-care, nature, and simplicity.

Tips for Disconnecting

So, how can we disconnect and start reaping the benefits? Here are a few tips :

• Set specific times during the day when you will disconnect. For example, you could disconnect from technology for the last hour before bed, or for a specific block of time during the day.
• Turn off notifications on your devices. This will help you avoid getting distracted by constant notifications and messages.
• Create a "technology-free" space in your home. This could be a specific room or area where you go to disconnect.
• Find a hobby or activity that you enjoy that doesn't involve technology. This could be something as simple as reading a book or going for a walk.

Disconnecting from technology is important for our mental and physical health, as well as our ability to be productive and present in our own lives and the lives of those around us. By setting specific times to disconnect, turning off notifications, creating a technology-free space, and finding a hobby or activity that doesn't involve technology, we can start to reap the benefits of disconnecting and reconnecting with ourselves and the world around us.

Unleash Your Inner Baker: How Making Your Own Bread aligns with the Cottagecore Lifestyle

 

Making one's own bread is among the most well-liked ways to embody the Cottagecore philosophy. Find out why.

Bread making is a highly valued practice among Cottagecore enthusiasts as it aligns with the philosophy's core values of self-sufficiency and sustainability. Not only is it a delicious and practical task, but it also symbolizes a return to simpler times and a connection to small pleasures that soothe and give us purpose and meaning. The act of creating something delicious and nourishing from scratch, using natural ingredients, fits with the Cottagecore aesthetic of simplicity, rusticity, and charm.

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Let's look at how baking your own bread fits into the Cottagecore way of life and the different advantages it offers: 1. Baking your own bread is not only a practical task of creating something yummy, but it is also a symbol of self-sufficiency. By baking your own bread, you are taking control of the ingredients that go into your food and you are making a conscious effort to reduce your dependence on store-bought products. Furthermore, baking your own bread can be a more cost-effective option in the long run, as you can buy ingredients in bulk and make multiple loaves at once. 2. Making your own bread is also a sustainable practice because it allows you to use locally sourced ingredients that are often fresher and have a smaller environmental impact as they don't need to be shipped over long distances. For example, local yeast can be obtained from a local bakery or can be propagated from a sourdough starter made from flour and water, reducing the need for commercial yeast. Similarly, using locally sourced wheat can help to reduce the environmental impact of your bread as well as support local farmers and the local economy. 3. Compared to store-bought bread, handmade bread frequently utilizes fewer (or no) preservatives and additives, making it a healthier and more natural choice. These preservatives and additives are often used in commercial bread to extend its shelf life, but they can have negative impacts on our health. By baking your own bread, you are also able to customize it to your preferences, whether that's making it gluten-free, using whole wheat flour, or adding in your favorite herbs and spices. It also allows you to have control over the freshness of the bread, which can be healthier as well as taste better compared to store-bought bread. 4. Baking bread is also a meditative and therapeutic activity that allows you to focus on the present moment. The process of measuring, mixing and creating something delicious can be therapeutic and meditative, enabling you to concentrate on the present and unwind. Baking bread specifically can be a particularly rewarding experience, as it requires patience and attention to detail. The process of kneading the dough, watching it rise, and finally baking it in the oven can be a relaxing and grounding experience. The warm and comforting aroma of freshly baked bread can also have a soothing effect on the mind and body. The end result of warm, homemade bread is also a delicious reward for your hard work. 5. In addition to all of these advantages, baking bread is a wonderful way to socialize. You can bond over a delectable dinner or piece of bread while sharing your creations with friends and family. Building and fostering relationships and making lifelong memories can both be accomplished through bread baking. Overall, baking your own bread can be a rewarding, healthful, and budget-friendly activity that can be therapeutic and meditative. So, what are you still holding out for? ...dust off your mixing bowls and let's get baking! 

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

The following recipe for simple bread will take you to a quaint cottage in the countryside. Imagine biting into a warm, freshly baked loaf, the aroma filling your home with the comforting scents of baking bread. And the best part? You made it yourself! 

White Flour Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups white bread flour
• 2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
• Slowly add the warm water to the flour mixture, using a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  
• Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  
• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and shape it into a round loaf.
  
• Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  
• Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
  
• Once the loaf has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  
• Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

This recipe is a classic and simple recipe for white flour bread. It that can be enjoyed fresh or toasted, with butter or jam, or as a base for a sandwich.

Photo by Mart Production

It's perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, homemade bread that they can enjoy with the whole family.

Happy baking!

Find Joy in the Simple Things: A Beginner's Guide to the Cottagecore Philosophy

Are you curious about the Cottagecore trend, but not quite sure what it's all about? You're not alone! Cottagecore has gained popularity in recent years, but it can be a bit of a mystery to those who are unfamiliar with it.  In this article, we'll explore some common questions about the Cottagecore trend to help you understand what it is and how it can be incorporated into your life. From its key elements to common misconceptions, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Cottagecore trend.

1. What is Cottagecore?

Cottagecore is a cultural and aesthetic movement that romanticizes rural living, nature, and a simpler way of life. It often includes elements of nostalgia for a perceived idyllic past and a desire to return to a more natural and rustic way of living. Cottagecore fashion often includes flowing dresses, floral patterns, and comfortable, homely clothing. The aesthetic also includes an appreciation for gardens, baking, and other domestic pastimes. Many people who embrace the Cottagecore lifestyle seek to live self-sufficiently, either through homesteading or by simply embracing a more sustainable and low-impact way of living. Overall, Cottagecore is a celebration of the beauty and simplicity of rural living and a desire to connect with nature in a more meaningful way.

2. What are the key elements of Cottagecore?

The key elements of Cottagecore include a focus on living a simple, sustainable lifestyle, a love of the simple pleasures of life such as gardening and crafting, an emphasis on community and collaboration, a nostalgic, romanticized aesthetic that celebrates rural living and a connection to the natural world, and a desire to live a more self-sufficient and self-reliant lifestyle focused on finding joy and purpose in the simple things in life. Overall, the key elements of Cottagecore involve a celebration of the beauty and simplicity of rural living and a desire to connect with nature in a more meaningful way. 

3. How do I incorporate the Cottagecore philosophy into my own life?

If you're interested in incorporating the Cottagecore philosophy into your own life, there are several ways you can do so. First, consider embracing a simpler and more sustainable way of living. This can involve reducing your consumption and waste, learning how to live self-sufficiently, and embracing a more low-impact lifestyle. Another way to incorporate the Cottagecore philosophy is to spend more time in nature and cultivate a closer connection to the outdoors. This could involve gardening, going for walks in natural areas, or simply spending more time enjoying the beauty of the natural world. Another way to embrace the Cottagecore philosophy is to incorporate elements of nature and a rustic aesthetic into your home and personal style. This could involve decorating with natural materials, wearing comfortable and homely clothing, and embracing domestic pastimes such as baking and homemaking. Overall, there are many ways to incorporate the Cottagecore philosophy into your own life and it's all about finding what works best for you and your personal values.

4. Is Cottagecore just a trend or is it a lifestyle?

Cottagecore can be both a trend and a lifestyle, depending on how deeply someone embraces the values and philosophy of the movement. For some, Cottagecore is simply a trend or an aesthetic, while for others it is a deeply held philosophy that guides their lifestyle choices.

For those who embrace the Cottagecore philosophy, it's about more than just adopting a certain fashion style or aesthetic – it's about living in a way that is connected to the natural world and that values a simpler, more sustainable way of life. While it's certainly possible to adopt certain elements of the Cottagecore aesthetic without fully embracing the philosophy, for those who are truly committed to the Cottagecore way of life, it becomes a way of life rather than just a trend. It's important to note that the Cottagecore lifestyle looks different for everyone and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Some people may embrace the Cottagecore philosophy by homesteading and living completely off the grid, while others may simply incorporate elements of the Cottagecore aesthetic into their daily lives without making any major lifestyle changes. The key is to find what works for you and your personal values. 

5. What are some common misconceptions about Cottagecore?

Like any cultural or aesthetic movement, Cottagecore has its fair share of misconceptions and misunderstandings. One common misconception is that the Cottagecore lifestyle is only accessible to those who live in rural areas or who have access to a lot of lands. While it's true that the rural setting can certainly enhance the Cottagecore experience, it's not necessary to live in the countryside to embrace the Cottagecore philosophy. In fact, many people who live in urban areas have found ways to incorporate elements of the Cottagecore lifestyle into their daily lives, whether it's through gardening, connecting with nature in nearby parks or green spaces, or simply adopting a more sustainable and low-impact way of living.

Another common misconception is that the Cottagecore lifestyle is overly romanticized and unrealistic. While it's true that the movement often includes elements of nostalgia for a perceived idyllic past, it's important to remember that the Cottagecore lifestyle is about finding joy and meaning in a simpler, more sustainable way of living – not about trying to recreate the past.

Finally, some people may view the Cottagecore movement as being exclusionary or elitist, but this is not the case. The Cottagecore philosophy is about finding what works for you and your personal values, and it's open to anyone who is interested in exploring a more sustainable and low-impact way of living.

6. Can anyone embrace the Cottagecore philosophy?

Yes, anyone can embrace the Cottagecore philosophy, regardless of their age, race, or socio-economic status. The Cottagecore movement is inclusive and open to anyone who embraces its values.

7. Is Cottagecore just for women?

Cottagecore is not just for women – it is a trend that is open to anyone who embraces its values, regardless of gender.

8. How does the Cottagecore trend relate to other trends, such as hygge or frugal living?

The Cottagecore trend has some overlap with other trends such as hygge, which celebrates coziness and comfort, and frugal living, which focuses on living a more minimalist and economical lifestyle. All of these trends celebrate the simple pleasures of life and the importance of sustainability and self-sufficiency.

9. Can I be a Cottagecore enthusiast if I don't live in a cottage?

Yes, you can be a Cottagecore enthusiast even if you don't live in a cottage. The Cottagecore trend is about more than just where you live – it is about living an uncomplicated, sustainable, and worthwhile life, and this can be achieved in any type of home.

10. Can I be a Cottagecore enthusiast if I don't like gardening?

Yes, you can be a Cottagecore enthusiast even if you don't like gardening. While gardening is a popular activity among Cottagecore enthusiasts, it is not a requirement for embracing the Cottagecore philosophy. There are many other simple pleasures and activities that can be a part of the Cottagecore lifestyle, such as painting, pottery, hiking in nature, birdwatching, and spending time outdoors. Reading, writing, and other creative pursuits can also be a part of the Cottagecore lifestyle, as they allow us to slow down and appreciate the beauty and simplicity of the present moment.

Other activities that can be a part of the Cottagecore lifestyle include cooking and baking with fresh, seasonal ingredients, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and engaging in hobbies such as knitting, sewing, or woodworking. The key is to find activities that bring you joy and that allow you to live a more sustainable, low-impact lifestyle. There are countless ways to incorporate the Cottagecore philosophy into your daily life, and it's all about finding what works for you and your personal values.

11. Is Cottagecore just about the past, or can it be applied to modern life?

While vintage and antique items can be a part of the Cottagecore aesthetic, the Cottagecore  trend is about more than just adopting a certain look. It is not limited to the past – it is a trend that can be applied to modern life and can be a source of joy and fulfillment in the present.

12. How can I learn more about the Cottagecore trend?

There are many ways to learn more about the Cottagecore trend, such as reading books and articles on the subject, joining online communities of Cottagecore enthusiasts, or following Cottagecore influencers on blogs, social media etc

13. Can the Cottagecore trend be embraced in a city setting?

Yes, the Cottagecore trend can be embraced in a city setting. While the Cottagecore trend often celebrates rural living and a connection to the natural world, it is not limited to rural areas. The Cottagecore philosophy can be applied to any location. One way to embrace the Cottagecore trend in a city setting is to bring elements of nature into your home or apartment through plants, flowers, and natural decor. 

Whether it's through incorporating natural elements into your home, connecting with nature in your city, or simply adopting a more sustainable and low-impact way of living, there are many ways to incorporate the Cottagecore philosophy into your daily life, no matter where you live.

We hope that this article has helped you learn more about the Cottagecore trend and its key elements. No matter how you choose to engage with the Cottagecore trend, remember that it is about more than just adopting a certain aesthetic – it is about living a simple, sustainable, and fulfilling life. So whether you're a seasoned Cottagecore enthusiast or just getting introduced to the movement, we hope that you'll find inspiration and joy in embracing the Cottagecore philosophy in your own way.