4 Ways to Plan Relaxation
Sometimes we assume that since we work from home, relaxation and time off shouldn’t be a priority, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! Whether we work from home or in an office, it’s important to practice self-care and take time for ourselves. According to HuffingtonPost.com, ”there are studies to show that stress is comparable to other risk factors that we traditionally think of as major, like hypertension, poor diet and lack of exercise.” It’s clearly very important to relax from time to time!
While you can always schedule a massage after hours or go on vacation, this type of relaxation is meant to be a few hours out of your day to truly recharge. Burnout is a real thing, and it’s important to take stock of stress before it takes hold.
Read along for some best tips to ensure that your scheduled relaxation is a priority, and you’re able to reap the maximum benefits of it.
Get it on the schedule
Whether your idea of relaxation is a spa massage, facial, or a few hours out in nature, be sure that it gets on the schedule. Spontaneous relaxation is always appreciated, but when we don’t schedule something, it’s more than likely that it will get skipped.
Figure out how you want to spend your day (or several hours) of relaxation and pencil it in! This also tells your family that you will be unavailable during that time.
Take time off
Now that your relaxation time is on the schedule, it’s time to take time off from work. You could schedule your time away for a weekend or after work hours, but there are benefits to taking time off during the workweek as well.
Ensure that your employer(s) is noted about your absence, and work ahead a bit so that work isn’t a stressor.
Take time for fun
Even if you can’t take regular relaxation breaks, fun can also be very invigorating and relaxing! Book a lunch date with a friend, schedule a picnic in the park, or do something non-traditionally “relaxing.” Getting out of the normal routine and taking a break outside the home can do wonders for stress levels.
Get a plan in place
A plan is a must! If you’re going to take a day or a few hours for yourself, it will be important to ensure that other things are handled. This is especially true if you’re able to take your time during the week!
For kids, pets, and anything else that may come up, create a game plan. Of course, emergencies aren’t always avoidable, but this will ensure that your mind is focused on your time of relaxation when it comes. Set up a play date, hire a pet sitter, and enjoy your time!
Relaxing is a very key component to health and wellness, and it allows us to be better at home, work, with our friends, and in our communities.