Not only do we need mini breaks throughout the day, but we also need to carve out more extensive periods to provide our mind and body with more profound relaxation. Extended or deeper relaxation times support our well-being and are to be treasured and enjoyed. Thoughts to consider when you are indulging in ample relaxation time:
- Don’t rush through your time. Let go of trying to do too much and let go of your “to-do” list.
- Deep relaxation doesn’t mean not doing anything; instead, be fully present and enjoy what you do.
- Take time to do deep breathing, as it will help you release tension and thoughts from your everyday life.
We are all unique in how we live our lives, and here are some ideas to create space for more profound relaxation time:
Hobbies
Hobbies are great ways to be creative and express what we enjoy and ourselves. Think about what you love to do and take time to indulge in your creative juices:
- Writing
- Crafts
- Running
- Painting
- Gardening
- Cooking
- Photography
- Candle Making
- Camping
- Find the one that you enjoy and spend time enjoying doing it.
If you don’t have a current hobby, what about the one you have been interested in exploring? A perfect time to indulge and learn something new.
Travel
Taking a trip is a great way to get away from your everyday life and find time to enjoy new scenery. Important not to try to do too much when traveling; otherwise, you will need a vacation from your vacation. There are so many tours– even bike tours if this interests you.
Go On a Retreat
Retreats are time away from your normal day-to-day activities. There are many different retreats, all there to support your well-being:
- Spiritual retreats
- Meditation retreat – a family member takes week-long meditation retreats regularly.
- Art class – a way to expand your creative energy.
- Hiking
- Create your retreat – for example, go away for several days and make it a writing retreat.
- Wellness – they could offer meditation, yoga, stress management, and life coaching. Taking the time to evaluate where you are in your life and how it is serving or not serving you.
Stay at Home – Staycation
A staycation has the mindset of a vacation, though at home. No stressful traveling or spending lots of money and time traveling. You are still stepping away from your daily routines and creating extended relaxation.
Some DON’Ts on a staycation:
- Just because you are home doesn’t mean you are working. Take time to make memories for yourself or your family.
- Let everyone know you are on vacation. You don’t have to say you are home on a staycation. Instead, say you are vacationing with family or friends.
- Don’t just fill up the time with your typical distractions at home. Create a unique space to go deep into relaxation.
- No matter how busy you are at work, don’t feel guilty for letting go of work and carving out time for yourself.
Some DOs on a staycation:
- Take time to enjoy your family and friends. Studies show that when we are with people we care for and appreciate us as well, the tension melts away.
- Do gardening.
- Time to catch up on reading.
- Have picnics either in your backyard or go to a nearby park.
- Start your daily practice of meditation.
- Write in your journal about what you like about yourself, your strengths, and what you want to create in your life.
- Explore where you live – be a tourist and see what your town or city offers beyond what you already know.
- Go to the museums – get some visual stimulation.
- Go to a day spa.
- Take mini small trips and try a new restaurant.
- Take long walks – we relax when we move our bodies and embrace nature.
- Go to the beach, love nature, and chill out.
- Dress up your home to feel special – simple additions like clean sheets, flowers, and music in the background. Light some candles. Bake or cook something so the smell permeates the home.
- Try out new recipes for you and your family.
- Get into a hobby or build something you want to create.
- Give yourself permission to relax and recharge your energy.
- Go you a state park for the day
- Create a few movie nights with family and friends.
Your Thoughts
The above ideas are there to stimulate your imagination. What do you love to do or want to explore since you now have time for yourself?
Womens Group Topics
Discuss ways you can support each other to carve out extended relaxation time. A group is a perfect place to build accountability in our lives so we support our well-being.
Be well,
Pat
“To fully enjoy the ‘richness’ of our lives, we need to stop long enough to visit with ourselves.”
(Pat Brill)
Other Topics You May Be Interested In
Can You Be as Happy as You Want to Be?
What If – You are Lovable?
Our Power in Life is Choice
Do you want to download a PDF copy of both of these books, then go to:
