Summer is the time to focus on the big picture of your life. Instead of wasting time worrying about things that won’t matter in the end, it’s time to prioritize your health and well-being while it’s still sunny and bright outside.
It is so easy to get bogged down on minute details of life, from being over-scheduled to feeling stressed about our health and finances.
However, this makes it even more important to focus on our health and relaxing. Here are 10 tips you can use to slow down and relax now. Don’t let relaxation and your health fall off your priority list.
Tip #1: Just breathe
When was the last time you just took a deep breath and closed your eyes?
Sometimes this little trick is enough for a quiet moment to yourself. The next time you feel overwhelmed or tired, close your eyes and just breathe.
Tip #2: Sit outside and watch nature
There’s a reason why computer desktop backgrounds and screensavers feature waterfalls, beaches, and beautiful trees.
Their creators know these images calm people down.
So if you’re looking to relax, go somewhere to observe nature and just enjoy being outside. It doesn’t have to be fancy or far away. Take your lunch break outside, or sit in your backyard to watch birds go by.
Tip #3: Turn off your smartphone
While it’s great connecting with family, smartphones cause stress. So when you’re feeling most stressed, turn off your phone.
Make one night a week tech-free and notice how much slower time goes by.
Tip #4: Make a dinner that’s slow
There’s something relaxing about eating delicious, tenderly prepared food. There’s even something about making food from scratch that can be relaxing.
One night this weekend, buy the ingredients to make a tasty meal. Drink a glass of organic red wine, listen to calming music, and make something you’ll enjoy eating.
Tip #5: Drink wine
Drinking wine is a great way to relax, and certain wines are even good for your heart.
Just make sure to drink in moderation.
Tip #6: Sit someplace new
Visiting a new place is exciting, but so is sitting and observing people.
Try sitting at a local Starbucks or mall and just people watch.
Tip #7: Go on a long walk
Walking is a great exercise. Go on a long walk and observe nature or just the inner workings of your neighborhood. The walk itself is calming and provides aerobic exercise.
Tip #8: Visit animals
Visit your local zoo or nature preserve. Watching how animals interact with each other is a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
Tip #9: Take yoga or get a massage
There’s a reason people associate yoga and massages with the ultimate relaxation. It’s because they work.
If going to a yoga studio seems impossible, use a video online. There are many free or low-cost options available.
Tip #10: Revisit your childhood self
Odds are you didn’t feel as stressed as a kid. Figure out what you spent time doing. Whether it’s skipping rocks on a lake or lying in the grass, try out those activities again. You just might find them relaxing as an adult.
Relaxation is just one step toward a healthy lifestyle. Contact us today for a consultation on what your next steps should be.
