We have grown accustomed to a culture that defines worth by the number of things you are juggling at once. Although there is some gratification in achieving our career goals and thriving in business, it is easy to lose sight of the importance of taking a step back and relaxing for a moment.
In moderation, being “lazy” is just as important to success as productivity. Carving out space for tranquility allows us to recharge and prepare for the busy week ahead while also reducing stress and improving mental health.
Tackle the Guilt
If you are someone who has grown accustomed to prioritizing responsibilities over anything else, there may be a tinge of guilt when trying to relax. The weight of the world seems to be on your shoulders, and taking a break for even a second feels like it will cause the world to collapse.
Remember that you are just one person, and trust that the world has the support it needs to function without you for a moment. Release your guilt because taking a moment for yourself is just as necessary for you as it is for your career. If you overexert yourself and burn out, the work suffers, and you lose yourself in the process.
Remove Yourself from Any Distractions
Nothing’s worse than settling into your peaceful space and being interrupted by the aggravating ring of your work phone. Remember that this is your moment to unwind, and there will be time to go back to your responsibilities once you have sufficiently relaxed.
Find an area that is free of any temptations to work. It could be a room in your home like the living room, your bedroom, a reading nook, or a sunroom if you have it. If being outdoors relaxes you, then, by all means, find a hiking trail or park to enjoy your time in.
Send a message to friends, family, and colleagues that you will be out for a moment but will notify them when you are back on the grid. This way, you can fully unplug and soak in your moment of peace.
What Relaxes You?
Relaxation looks different to every individual. Examine yourself and discover what it is that makes you happy. Is it reading a book, taking a long bubble bath, or even watching Netflix? It could be something creative like painting or knitting. Maybe you are more active and prefer going to the gym, or taking a walk.
Whatever the case, it should be something for your enjoyment that allows you to be selfish for a moment and engage in one of your favorite activities. If you are new to the world of hobbies, there is no shame in exploring different activities (or lack thereof) in order to find what works for you.
Declutter Your Space to Declutter Your Mind
If you have decided your relaxation sanctuary is indoors, make sure the space and surrounding area are clutter-free. If you sit down to unwind and see a bunch of miscellaneous items crowding your sanctuary, the tranquility is broken.
Although they might seem insignificant, messes are visually overstimulating and distracting, thus disrupting the flow of peaceful energy. To avoid this issue, take the time to clean up and get rid of anything that no longer serves you. Item by item, you will feel your stress dissipating and your mental health improving.
What is Missing?
After clearing out the space, it may seem a little empty and sad. There is a fine line between minimalist and boring, and going too far into the latter could have the opposite effect you’re trying to achieve.
Surrounding yourself with items that spark joy will both elevate the area and improve your mood. Remember that your relaxation zone is yours to play with, so create a space that satisfies your personal needs. Maybe you want comfy blankets and pillows for a movie marathon or an oil diffuser and candles for a spa day. Build a haven that is uniquely yours.
Retail Therapy
If your preferred escape is a more active environment like a hiking trail or the gym, then maybe having a fresh fit and new equipment can kick the fun up a notch. You never want to go overboard with the shopping – otherwise, it defeats the purpose of the activity, but adding some pizzazz never hurts.
Find a couple of cute new workout sets and gear that will keep you feeling pumped and stylish while conquering those weights. Maybe some quality hiking boots and a chic belt bag will motivate you to hike the extra mile on the trail next time. The key is to make your moment of relaxation as enjoyable as possible.
Set the Mood
Once you have decluttered and revamped your relaxation space, it’s time to prepare for your moment of peace. Depending on the activity of your choice, you can dress accordingly. Sporting some soft and cozy sweats with warm fuzzy slippers will surely elevate the sensation of comfort.
Create a tranquil atmosphere with a tailored playlist or podcast. Be sure to bring in some goodies for potential snacking and your drink of choice to take the edge off. Think of anything you might need to create the perfect sanctuary.
Give In
You are finally ready to release and settle into your peaceful oasis. Whether it’s just for ten minutes, an hour, or the whole day, this moment of relaxation will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Dive into the sensations of serenity and allow yourself this moment of bliss.
When you are ready to come back to reality, you will find yourself restored and ready to tackle any obstacle that comes your way.
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