10 simple ways to relax every day

Relaxation is an essential process in ensuring good mental health and a sense of overall well-being. But, relaxation takes time, doesn’t it?

We don’t always have a spare two hours to sit down and watch our favourite film on a mid-week evening. And, sometimes we need to take a break to relax at work if we’re having a particularly stressful day – but how will our boss take it if we abandon our desk for half an hour to practice some meditation? (We’re guessing probably not very well)

But, taking time for you doesn’t have to be time-consuming, and you can fit it into your schedule – no matter how busy you are. Here are 10 of our favourite quick ways to relax, that you can do every day.

1. Take a break

Everyone is different – we all have different lengths of time that we can focus. But, whether your ‘concentration span’ lasts 15 minutes or a few hours, it’s important to take regular breaks.

So, whether it’s making a drink, running an errand, or speaking to a colleague, this relaxation time allows your mind to re-focus on the task in front of you, looking at it from a fresh perspective each time you return to it.

2. Focus on your breathing

Don’t feel that you need to fill up all your time with ‘doing’ things. Take some time to simply ‘be’. Hone in on your breath and notice the control you can have over it. When you feel like you need to relax, slow your breathing down.

3. Listen to music

The music doesn’t have to be typical ‘relaxation music’ music – classical or instrumental. Listening to your favourite music can be a great way to chill you out – and you’ll enjoy it.

4. Picture yourself somewhere serene

Visualisation is the act of imagining yourself in a peaceful and safe environment. By transferring yourself mentally to a place that makes you relaxed and happy, you’re able to calm your mind and body. This can be particularly helpful when you’re trying to drift off to sleep, by distracting you from any worries or anxieties that might be on your mind.

5. Make time to indulge in your hobbies

Whether it’s drawing, playing a video game, or reading a book that you enjoy – make time for the things you love. It’s an important part of keeping yourself from getting too stressed out, and temporarily switching your mind off from the everyday.

6. Get active

If you’re looking for gentle exercise, why not try a yoga or pilates class? Or, if you’re wanting to try something more intense, try out a HIIT workout. Putting your body through its paces for 20 to 30 minutes might not seem relaxing at the time, but you’ll reap the rewards later.

The post-workout endorphins you’ll feel will help increase your overall well-being – and that burst of energy will mean you’ll fall asleep easier come bed time.

7. Switch off

Take a break from technology. Put your phone out of sight, or put it on silent, and just ignore the world for an hour. Enjoy the sense of freedom it brings with it.

8. Spend time in nature

Get outside. Go for a walk, and take lots of deep breaths. Particularly when the weather’s nice, the sun will make you feel happier and will help to boost your levels of vitamin D, too!

9. Have a good time

Laugh – lots and often. Laughter is good for you and it’s a great form of stress relief. Laughing stimulates the circulation and can aid muscle relaxation.

10. Wash away your stress

Taking a bath is widely seen as one of the best ways to relax. But, it’s not the only way to relax in the bathroom; take a shower. Whilst shampooing you can give yourself a head massage by using your fingertips to apply light, steady pressure along your scalp.

What are your favourite ways to relax? Let us know in the comments below!

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Written by Becky Banham
Becky is Brand and Social Strategist for Happiful and a writer for Hypnotherapy Directory.
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Written by Becky Banham
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