If you are like most, you've worked hard this week. Your off days should be a time to #relax and #recharge, yet the majority of people can't do that. I shouldn't really say they can't, it's more like they don't know how. Majority of my clients are floored when I teach them how to truly relax, even the ones who claim that they know how to relax are stunned. Aside from being taught self-hypnosis, there are a few things you can do to help you get the most out of your days off.
1. Learn to Say "No"
If you're looking for some real R&R, learn to say no to social obligations, and work. These often fill up our weekends, and just extends our active, busy week.
2. Power Down
Social media, and emails connect us 24/7 creating stress, and in most cases an urgency to check our phones when we hear that notification sound. It's important to disconnect. Try leaving your phone in a separate room, or if you need to be able to check your phone for work reasons, logout of social media sites.
3. Do Nothing
For one hour (or longer) do nothing. Well, not nothing exactly, but read a book or magazine, watch a movie, play a game. "Me" time is a great way to relax!
4. Get a Move On
Exercise is a great way to de-stress! It also boosts your mood, and keeps your immune system in good shape. So grab that yoga mat, fire up the treadmill, or just go for a nice long walk.
5. What's New
Sometimes it's difficult to disconnect when you're sitting at home (especially if you work from home). So get out and do something new, go to that new store, or yoga studio you've driven by a million times. Try your hand at a cooking class, or painting class.
6. Plan it Out
Planning out your week will reduce stress, save money, and create more time for you to relax and enjoy yourself. Meal planning is one of the best ways to save time, and money. Plan to do your chores in the morning so they are done. This way you won't spend your day worrying about when they will get done. To-Do lists are very useful to keep you on track. Be sure to plan your relaxing time, it's easy to over plan your weekend to 'catch-up' but remember the plan is to relax.
7. Oversleeping
It can be hard to overcome the urge to sleep in, or even take a late afternoon catnap. While it might be tempting these actually interfere with your sleep schedule and can end up making you more tired. Set that morning alarm, and if you still feel tired, have a power nap during the day.
8. Music
Music can help relax and calm, invigorate and energize, even help you focus, and reduce pain. Throw on some of your favorite tunes while you clear off your pre-relaxing checklist, then move into something mellow to help you unwind, and slowly relax into your stress-free afternoon.
9. Get Out
Expanding on #4, go outside! Sunshine and fresh air are a few things most people don't get enough of during the week. Even if it's cold out, a nice brisk walk around the block is all it takes!
10. Be Present
Don't think or dwell on weekday stuff, instead stay in the moment of what you are currently doing. Stay positive! Worrying about next week, or even tomorrow just wastes time, and creates stress. Enjoy your time off, after all you've earned it!
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