Ever feel like you can’t relax? You’re not alone. It can be difficult to shut off when you’re always on the go. A stressful job and busy home life can mean that it’s hard to slow down, even once you’ve been given those quiet moments that you’ve been craving.
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If you’re looking for ways you can relax and unwind, then the good news is that there are some fantastic ways you can chill out and recharge. Take a look at these eight great suggestions to help you truly relax during your downtime.
Table of Contents
1. Take a bath
A bath is the perfect way to relax after a long day. A warm bath is ideal for helping to ease muscle tension, can soothe aches and pains and help you to slow down when you’ve been rushing around on your feet all day. Some of the best ways to relax in the bath include using Epsom salts, add some essential oils and light some candles. Use your bath time to apply a face mask and give yourself a facial – a bit of pampering will do wonders for both your skin and your mental wellbeing.
2. Exercise
Exercise might seem like added stress, especially if you don’t exercise regularly. However, exercise can be a great stress reliever, particularly if you need to burn off some excess tension. Some top exercises for relaxation include yoga or going for a run – or you might even find that something more high-intensity such as boxing is best for helping you to unwind. If you want to spend some time relaxing with your other half, then there are some effective workouts you can do with your partner to help you both keep your fitness up while relaxing together.
3. Read
Reading is a wonderful way to distract you from your day and get you out of your head. Whatever you like to read, from novels to historical biographies – sometimes it’s good to just curl up with a good book. Reading is something that you can do to unwind before you go to bed – helping you to shut off in a way that the TV or your phone can’t. Make some time for regular reading; it’ll do you good to delve into another world from time to time.
4. Watch your favorite TV shows
A busy schedule can mean that watching your favorite TV shows can be the first thing to slip in your life. However, indulging in your favorite shows is an excellent way to shut out reality and just enjoy being entertained. Whatever your guilty TV pleasure, you’ll find that spending a bit of time sat on the sofa and switching yourself off is a great way to chill. Need some inspiration for something to watch? Take a look at some of the best TV shows of 2018 so far to help you fill up your planner.
5. Play computer games
Computer games may seem like an unlikely way to relax, but you’d be surprised at how much you could enjoy it. Computer games let you step into another reality, so you can forget about the real world for a bit and exist somewhere else. Don’t dismiss all computer games as all being shoot-em-ups or sports games; there are plenty of options to suit your tastes. Fantasy games like FF15 A New Empire are ideal for enjoying on the move, helping you to unwind wherever you are. Just remember to step back into reality!
6. Find a hobby you enjoy
Sometimes the best way for you to relax is to spend some time doing something you truly enjoy. Finding a hobby or creative outlet that you love can serve as the perfect distraction and give you some much-needed ‘me’ time. Whether you’re into baking, sewing, creating crafts or even photography – it’s important to have something that you’re passionate about. Find a hobby you enjoy and make time for yourself to enjoy it to help make sure you get the relaxation time you need.
7. Take a vacation
When was the last time you had a real break? One where you got away from everyone and everything and simply just relaxed? Even when you’re at home by yourself, it can be difficult to switch off, and the temptation of your work emails or social media can start having an effect on your quality time. When you take a vacation, however, you get the time to really take a break and put some distance between you and your work or home and simply just focus on where you are. By learning to unplug on vacation, you’ll be able to make the most of your time and return from your break feeling completely refreshed. Don’t cram too many activities into your vacation so that you can simply enjoy the little things like lying on the beach or sipping cocktails by the pool.
8. Get some sleep
Do you always get your recommended eight hours of sleep a night? It seems that most Americans don’t get enough sleep as they should. Sleeping can affect your mood, alter your concentration as well as leave you feeling lethargic and unfocused. Use your downtime to get more sleep to help you get back on track. Getting your chores and other activities out of the way quicker means you’ll be able to get to bed sooner – leaving you feeling like a whole new person. Sleep is important for both your mental and physical wellbeing, so it’s essential that you do what you can to get your recommended eight hours. Finding time to relax helps to ease your stress and switch off from the things that might be on your mind, helping you to sleep better at night,
However you like to spend your downtime, make sure that you take the time to relax. Spend time doing things you enjoy that help you to unwind for better overall health and wellbeing. Even when your downtime is precious, be sure to make the most of every moment.
