Why relaxation isn’t a waste of your time

We all lead busy lives, and sometimes relaxation seems like an unproductive use of time. But, we’re here to prove that it’s not, and you should set time aside to relax.

There’s a strong link between relaxation and improved mental, and physical, health. If you find yourself getting stressed often, or struggle with anxiety issues, there’s even more reason for you to wind down and chill out. Being stressed for long periods of time puts a lot of stress on our bodies – particularly on our hearts.

So, relax. You’ll feel better for it – in mind and in body.

You’re entitled to relax.

No one has to be on their game 24/7, no matter how much of a workaholic or perfectionist you are. No one is going to give you a hard time for taking a break or five minutes me-time if you feel that you need it.

You’ll be more productive.

Stress is one of the biggest dampeners on productivity. Taking some time to calm down can readjust your view, enable you to prioritise tasks more effectively and charge ahead once you feel more focused.

You’ll be able to think more positively.

After time for reflection, you may be able to return to a situation in a more positive mind frame, and take a fresh perspective. Sometimes, it is better to step away from a situation, and take time to understand your own thoughts.

You’ll help others feel and act more relaxed, too.

If you can create a calming environment for yourself, that can have an impact on others. You’ll be helping your friends, family and colleagues to be more zen – and that, in turn, will alter the ways you communicate with each other.

Talking to each other in a calmer, more considered manner prevents unnecessary confrontation – and it means you’re less likely to say things that you don’t really mean.

Relaxation gets easier.

If time for relaxation doesn’t normally fall within your routine it may feel alien to start doing it all of a sudden. But, even if you set aside half an hour a day to do something that helps you to chill out and think of something other than work, it will start to feel normal.

Depending on the time of day that you set aside for relaxation, it’ll help you to fall asleep easier, and help you to sleep better, too. Being well-rested in itself is a good step towards feeling more relaxed in general.

Can’t relax? For tips on how to wind down, take a look at our relaxation blogs.