We all have pretty busy schedules. Work, commuting, deadlines, familial commitments, social plans, exercise, chores… the list goes on and on. This is fine, there are things that we all have to do in life to provide ourselves with an income and to spend time with those we love. The issue is that many of us find ourselves not able to relax and unwind. We feel like every second of the day is taken up by tasks that we might not want to do at that given time, or that we do want to do but simply feel burnt out engaging with. This is why you need to take time to relax and unwind. Some you time will give you the opportunity to recuperate and get back to yourself. Here are some suggestions that you might like to try working into your routine.
A Nap
Sure, we tend to associate naps with kids. But if you’re feeling particularly tired and drained in the day, and you have the time free to take a nap, why not? It can give you some much needed rest and leave you feeling refreshed and ready to face the day again.
TV and Film
If you’ve just got home and just need a break, kick your feet up on the sofa and enjoy your favourite TV show or film. This will give you a chance to really unwind and be entertained at the same time.
Games
Into your games? Take some time to enjoy them. Whether that’s PlayStation, Xbox or mr mega, anything that takes your mind off things and gives you a chance to immerse yourself in another space can be a great way to disconnect from your stresses. There are countless games out there, so take some time to find the ones that appeal to you.
Nature
Get out and spend some time in nature. Way too many of us spend way too much time cooped up in offices, our homes and other indoor spaces. Getting out and about can quite literally give you a breath of fresh air. It can be anything from a short walk to a hike depending on your fitness levels and how long you want to be out and about. Any time spent to yourself in nature is a positive. Find a local beauty spot and head there. You could take a picnic, a drink or simply take some time to yourself in the quiet.
A Bath
A good soak in a hot bath can be extremely soothing. Not only does the water relieve your muscles and allow you to unwind, but the atmosphere is really relaxing too. Try some bath salts for extra health benefits.
Cooking
If you enjoy cooking, this can be a great activity to engage with that will give you some time to yourself and leave you with a tasty dish in the end too. Try looking up some new recipes and trying something you haven’t tried before.
Massage
If you’re considering a relaxing day out, head to your local spa and book in for a massage. A professional masseuse can help you to unwind by using special techniques that relax your muscles and leave you feeling loose and limber. There are all sorts of massages out there, so talk to your masseuse about what you want to get out of your massage. The most popular type tends to be Swedish massage.
Reading
When is the last time that you read a book? Sure, we tend to flick through magazines and online articles, but reading a book can be a great escape and can help you to detach your mind from every day worries and thoughts. Of course, reading isn’t for everyone, so if you don’t like reading with a book, try out an audiobook. Most tiles are now available read out by professional readers.
Listen to a Podcast
Once you’ve found a podcast you enjoy, chances are, you’ll sign in to listen to every episode. Browse genres and titles you think you might enjoy. Eventually, you’ll find something that ticks your boxes. From history to pop culture, news, art, politics and anything else, there’s bound to be some sort of podcast that you’ll really enjoy.
Of course, we all have different interests and enjoy different things. So every option outlined above might not be for you. But hopefully, some will appeal to you! Give them a try and keep going until you find something that does help you to let your hair down.