Happy National Relaxation Day!!! Learning how to relax is absolutely critical. People can be so busy that they tend to push relaxation and self-care aside to focus on their work, school, being a parent, or so many other things. However, if you don't take the time out to focus on your body and unwind, then you can't reach your maximum potential energy because you will be burned out. As a result, you can't give your best effort into those things that you are prioritizing over your own health.
So because it is National Relaxation Day, I thought I'd share with you some of my tips for how to clear your mind and really spend time on you. It doesn't even have to take that long. You just need to slow down and focus on what your body is telling you. Allow yourself to heal from your daily stresses and feel rejuvenated. Give your mind time to slow down and remember why you are doing what you do in the first place. Never forget how important it is to have balance in your life - the busier you are, the more time you need to set aside to relax. Even though you may think you don't have the time to do so, your body will thank you for it and you will have the energy to do even better things later.
Have a cup of tea - Not only does tea have so many amazing health benefits (more on that in a later post), but it can also be a great way to take time out of your day and just enjoy being in the moment. I find that having a cup of hot tea can really help me relax, and it's something I always do when I'm feeling stressed (such as before an exam).
Yoga or meditation - I have been practicing yoga now for over six years, and it has become an essential part of my routine. I try to always do a fifteen minute yoga flow in the morning before getting ready, but it's also great to do throughout the day, especially if your work or school requires you to sit a lot. Even just doing some deep belly breathing can help you relax!
Play music - I love to take a break from whatever I am working on to play the guitar. It's a great way for me to clear my head so that I don't overthink things or so that my mind doesn't get too tired. If you are not a musician, just putting on one of your favorite songs and closing your eyes for a few minutes can also help you re-center your thoughts and intentions.
Go for a walk - Nothing is more relaxing than being out in nature. If you have the option, try to go outside and get some sunshine on your face and put your feet in the grass, even if it's just for a few minutes. I find that this can be really grounding and rejuvenating.
Read a book - I realize that you may not have enough time to sit down and just read a novel, but even taking ten minutes to read a book you enjoy can get out of your head and really improve your mood.
Spend time with family or friends - Perhaps the absolute best way to unwind is to spend time with loved ones. Put all electronics away and really be present. It's important for you to actually connect with the people around you and not live in entirely separate worlds. One great option is to play a game; i am currently obsessed with the game ANOMIA. I can just about guarantee that this game will make you laugh so hard you'll cry! And laughter truly is one of the best medicines in the world!
Keep in mind that we are human beings, not machines. We have to take breaks and allow ourselves to unwind and just be in the moment. I speak from personal experience that if you take the time to love and care for yourself, you will be able to give more to your work, school, family and more.
Comment below if you have any questions or want to share some of your favorite ways to relax!