If you live in Nevada, you’ve heard about the new(ish) laws regarding cell phones in the car. If not, here’s a refresher. Any Nevada driver caught texting or otherwise handling a cell phone while operating a vehicle will be slapped with a fifty dollar fine. And that is just for the first offense! Each subsequent offense increases in punishment severity. The second time you’re caught, you’ll get four demerit points on your license. And it just keeps getting worse. Exceptions are made for emergency personnel and a few other circumstances.
We all know it’s not legal or safe to be texting and driving in Las Vegas, but many still do it. So, what are some other things we can be doing on our commute to work or school or wherever we’re headed? Well, we’ve got some ideas that are not only safer than handling a cell phone, but they also come with a double benefit. Here are some suggestions of things you can do while in your car that can actually increase your happiness with effects that last all day.
1. Listen To Music
It was probably a given that we would suggest this first. After all, we’re in the radio business. But, did you ever notice that radio DJs are like annoyingly peppy? Well, a big part of that is that we listen to music all day! And there have been scientific studies that have proven music to be a mood-lifter. So put on your favorite song and really focus on it. Listen to the individual instruments and appreciate the lyrics…not only will this make you happier, but it’s actually a pretty good meditation practice as well. Want to REALLY boost your mood? Sing along. The louder the better. 🙂
2. Aromatherapize
What? That’s a word…sort of…It’s no secret that aromatherapy has calming effects. That’s why it’s hard to get a massage these days without some form of smell-good situation going on. Buy yourself a great new air freshener for the car. Or put a few drops of essential oil in a water bottle to keep in the car for those times you need a fresh burst. There are lots of great combinations you can make with your favorite scents. My favorite is Eucalyptus and Spearmint. 🙂
3. Listen To An Audiobook
They say laughter is the best medicine. Well, you can get a heavy dose of happy by listening to a great audiobook on your commute. Or even a podcast! Pick something that’s uplifting or funny and just enjoy. Stay away from news or anything heavy. That could have the opposite effect on your mood.
4. Call Someone
Texting is pretty much the most common form of communication we engage in these days, but the phone still has that old-timey skill of actually making phone calls. Crazy, right? I’m horrible at calling, but I always feel better after speaking to someone on the phone. And humans are a social species. We need to interact with our fellow mammals. It makes us feel connected to each other and supported in ways that social media just can’t achieve. Sorry, Instagram…we still love you! And even if we don’t think WE need a phone call, there’s a chance whoever is on the other line will be grateful for the connection.
But remember to still be safe and use a headset or bluetooth connection!
5. Relax
Do you ever wish you had a few minutes of quiet time during the day just to take a breather? Well, if you commute, you do! That twenty(ish) minutes in the car can be a great time to relax and get ready for (or wind down from) the day. Take deep breaths. Listen to a guided meditation…anything that can get you back into your zen place without putting you to sleep is a great choice.