Deciding to relax more often and finding the time are tough. Our schedules are packed with to-dos and there isn’t a lot of wiggle room for relaxation. Sure, you can go to bed earlier, get up earlier or schedule your next vacation, but there are other ways you can sneak more relaxation throughout our day. Here are some tips that will help-
TIP- Read more
TIP-Unplug more
TIP- Shower more
TIP- Nap more
TIP- Eat more
TIP: Grab a good book: Carrying a book with you in your bag, in your car, or within reach, can help you relax anywhere. If you find yourself waiting in line, open your book. Waiting on kids while they practice, open your book. The act of reading a great book can distract a busy mind from worries and help you relax in between commitments during the day. Instead of being distracted by overthinking or worrying, your mind can actually catch a break and refresh.
TIP: Unplug from technology: It may seem relaxing to scroll through social media but it can trigger anxiety and other powerful emotions. It’s become habitual to look at a screen any time there’s nothing else holding your attention. Rather than default to screen time, try sitting in silence or listening to soothing music instead. Unplugging from technology close to bedtime can make a big impact on how fast you fall asleep and how deeply you rest.
TIP: Expand your hygiene routines: Relaxation is an act of self-care. Allowing proper time for daily activities like showering, changing clothes after work, and getting ready for bed can help you relax as you transition throughout the day. Even ten extra minutes to yourself can make a big impact on your state of relaxation.
TIP: Learn to cat nap: Studies show that naps between 10-20 minutes offer the benefits of restorative sleep without the drowsiness caused by sleep inertia or too much nap time. Mastering the cat nap can help you relax and rejuvenate during the day and give you the boost you need to keep going while feeling relaxed.
TIP: Eat more often and choose better foods: Managing blood sugar can help you stay relaxed. Suffering the highs and lows of being hangry one moment and experiencing a food coma the next are stressful to your mind and body. Instead, plan to eat often and choose high quality food combinations. This helps keep your mood and energy stable.
Relaxation doesn’t have to be relegated to one long session. It’s possible to snag some relaxation throughout the day which adds up to a more refreshed and relaxed state of being. Find the techniques and opportunities for relaxation that best fit your schedule and your lifestyle and stick to them for a healthier mind and body.