Escapism can be defined as ‘the tendency to seek distraction and relief from unpleasant realities, especially by seeking entertainment or engaging in fantasy.’

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Let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to escape reality at the moment? I know I need to from time to time. I like to think that I’m a glass half full, optimistic type of person but I must admit that I am finding it more of a challenge, in the face of the pandemic.

‘Pure escapism’ is a phrase that you might expect to find in the description of some exotic holiday destination. Do you envisage a desert island, with palm trees and sun kissed beaches ? Or do you have some other ideas?

As travelling anywhere is becoming more challenging, and in some areas impossible, we need to look for other ways to escape.

France has always been my escape, over the years, but I’ve had to put it to the back of my mind, for the time being.

The sea features highly in my escapist thoughts. When I can’t sleep, I try to take myself for a long walk by the sea. This doesn’t need to be anywhere exotic. UK beaches are fine with me at any time of the year. Some of my most enjoyable walks have been in the winter with strong winds, rain and even snow! There is something very dramatic and liberating in fighting against the elements. I find that it’s the perfect way to get rid of those mental cobwebs and escape reality.

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I love reading. I have for as long as I can remember. Getting stuck into an engrossing book can transport you to a different place or time. This might be another country or a nostalgic journey into the past. For me, getting lost in a good book is one of the best forms of escapism.

‘Audio escapism’ is a phrase I have recently encountered. I interpret this as escaping through listening to music you love. I find that particular pieces of music are evocative of certain times, people or places. ‘Dark Side of the Moon’, Pink Floyd, is one of those albums. I also enjoy podcasts, especially if they can make me laugh.

One of the most effective ways to escape reality is through a film or television drama. Recently, I have been transported, via Netflix, to Paris. I have watched the whole series of ‘Emily in Paris‘. This series is lighter-than-light, full of clichés and stereotypes and yet I was transfixed by the beauty of Paris and the stylish outfits – of the French women – not the main character! This show appears to have totally divided opinion. I’m amazed that some viewers took it so seriously! For me, this was a fanciful programme which transported me to a very beautiful but rather farfetched slice of Paris. All in all, the epitome of escapism – for me anyway!

When so many of us are spending much more time in our homes, just getting outside can be a form of escape. Having Zeph, we have to go out for walks, no matter what the weather may be like. I always come back from a dog walk feeling refreshed and energised!

These are a few of the ways I escape reality. There are others. How do you like to ‘escape’? I’d be interested to know. Perhaps you also read, listen to music or watch films or do you have other forms of escapism that you would recommend? If you have time to comment that would be fab!