If you’re like most people, your everyday life is inundated with a number of stressors. How those stressors affect you ultimately comes down to how much effort you put into self-care and relaxation. There’s no denying that today’s society is more stressed-out than ever—and with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s incredibly important to maintain your mental and physical health. But how?
Taking the time to sit back and relax may be a foreign concept to those who are constantly busied with work or other things to do, but it’s imperative to do so to properly care for yourself. Luckily, no matter how busy you are, learning how to create time for restoring your mind and body is simple, and the more creative of an outlet you’re able to find, the better. We’re here to let you in on our favorite and most creative ways to relax your mind and body.
1. Swap a Book With a Friend
In desperate need of book recommendations? Rather than scouring the depths of the world wide web for a good read, swap a book with a friend instead. Not only will you be able to share one of your favorite books with a close friend, but you won’t have to spend any money to enter a whole new world of adventure and wonder. What’s more, once you’ve finished the book, you and your friend can bond over your thoughts and opinions and strengthen your friendship while you’re at it.
2. Experiment with CBD
CBD has taken the nation by storm, offering a slew of calming effects that can ease your mind and body. This chemical compound sourced from the Cannabis Sativa plant is used therapeutically. It can offer pain and anxiety relief and leave you feeling completely chilled out. Whether you try edible CBD gummies by PureKana or premium CBD vape pens by CBDfx, there are a number of ways you can reap the benefits of CBD.
3. Watch a Movie
Winding down with a feel-good movie is a great way to, well, feel good! Immersing yourself into a world and storyline completely separate from your own is a great way to escape reality for a couple of hours. Need some inspiration? Try out these movies that are bound to put a smile on your face and make your heart sing:
- The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
- Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
- Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
- Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
- My Neighbour Totoro (1988)
4. Listen to Music
Getting lost in your favorite soundscapes is a great way to unplug from your everyday hustle and bustle and tune into an ethereal experience. Whether that means queuing up your favorite throwback jams or listening to expert-generated playlists, grab your headphones, find a couch, and let the groove take you for a ride.
5. Have a Solo Dance Party
Sure, it may sound a little ridiculous to have a mini-dance party by yourself, but allowing yourself to get jiggy with it may be the cure you never knew you needed. Cue the dance hits, dim the lights, and put on your dancing shoes (or socks)!
6. Unplug From Social Media
Even if you adore sharing the fun tidbits of your life with your social circle, it can be draining trying to maintain a certain online image. Social media can be a huge stressor. By deactivating your accounts or simply temporarily deleting a couple apps on your smart device, you can do your mental health a huge favor.
7. Cook Some Comfort Food
What warms the heart faster than a good meal? Cooking up some comfort food is a great way to challenge and reward yourself at the same time. Even if you’re not a particularly skilled chef, there’s no time like the present to learn a new skill! Mac and cheese, cookie brownies, and smash burgers are all delicious beginner-friendly food ventures.
8. Write a letter
Do you have a special someone you’d like to make smile? Got someone you regret not saying something to? Writing a letter to someone is a great way to let out your thoughts and emotions in a safe and healthy space. All you need is a pen and some paper—and a stamp if you plan to mail it!
How do you relax? Do you have any clever tips? Let us know in the comments below!