Relaxing by the pool in Ibis Seef Manama in Bahrain
After a long day at work, it can feel like all you want to do is crawl into bed. But sometimes even when bedtime rolls around, you cannot possibly stop thinking or calm your mind. There are lots of things you can do to help yourself let go of the stresses of work, from taking a long hot bath, read a book, play bingo and more. Here are 15 great ideas for you to try next time you are feeling a little stressed.
- Chill Out
The process of taking your head below the level of your heart can actually help with relaxing your nervous system – chilling out is so important. You could go for a massage, lie down in a park, try some Organic CBD Nugs or just have an ice cold beer watching the sunset.
- Have a Run
I spent long even driving and backpacking and although the INTERNATIONAL DRIVERS ASSOCIATION have the right idea for travelling, running can be really good for the body. Even a short run can really help feelings of anxiety and stress to dissipate to. Raising your heart rate helps to use up any adrenaline that your body has released thanks for that great fight or flight response we get every time we experience stress.
- Pet the Dog
Or the cat, or any other animal you happen to share your life with. Stroking animal fur and hanging out with your pampered pet is a great way to unwind and destress.
- Have a Chat
Even if you are reading this during lockdown, it is still important to socialise. Ok, you cannot do that in person, but you can schedule a call with your best friend or get a few friends together to hang out on Zoom for a while.
- Have a Bath
Chilling out in a hot bath can do wonders for the soul. Either lay back and relax or read a book but be sure to keep electrics and phones away from the water.
Time for a bath in Senegal
- Netflix and Chill
An excellent binge-watching session is a great way to relax, and at this time of year, there is nothing better than wrapping yourself in a big blanket or duvet to snuggle on the sofa.
- Sweet Treats
Both honey and chocolate are excellent sweet treats that can help you relax. Keep your chocolate dark and your honey organic for the best possible effect.
- Meditate
A pretty classic suggestion when it comes to relaxing, but the great news is it really does work! Even if you find it hard to quiet the mind, the act of setting aside some time for yourself and trying to relax can help any feelings of stress you may have been experiencing.
Getting Naked Again: Nude Yoga With Veronika in London, England
- Train Your Brain
Any games that work the brain will help you find a new focus. Word games, crosswords, number games and problem-solving games are all available as apps or online, and many can be played for free. Refocus your brain, and within 20 mins you will be so absorbed you will have forgotten all about work.
- Dance it Out
Made famous by the long-running TV show, Grey’s Anatomy, the expression ‘dance it out’ became popular with the doctors as a way to destress. It is actually a perfect idea, so whack on your favourite tunes and throw some shapes. Dance as if no one is watching because in all likelihood no one is!
- Smell Yourself Calm
Aromatherapy is another great way to unwind, there are lots of blends sold for just that purpose, and you can put oils on a tissue, massage the body with oils in a carrier lotion or even burn candles of the scents that you love.
In the spa complex getting a massage
- Laugh
Laughter is good medicine, so find a way to make yourself giggle. Whether you watch your favourite comedian or try a little laughter therapy, the only important thing is that you laugh. Laugh until your sides ache and tears are streaming down your face.
- Yoga
Even if you can only spare 15 minutes, there are plenty of online yoga videos that can help you get started. Stretching your body and focusing the mind on movement are really beneficial ways of bringing your stress levels down.
- Declutter
The physical act of decluttering a wardrobe or cupboard can have a positive effect on decluttering the mind as well. Make a pile to keep, a pile to sell and a pile that is only fit for the bin.
- Cold Therapy
If your mind is racing and your heart feels the same, then get in the bathroom and splash some cold water on your face. You can also bring stress levels down by letting the cool water wash over your wrists.