How to Relax And Get Rid of Stress

If you are as busy as I am, finding time to relieve stress and relax gets pushed down on your priority list after everything else you have going on. Even though it is hard, you have to make time to de-stress.  If you do not make time to relax, stress builds up and not only will make you feel irritated but also will affect your health.

If you work in an office, try to take a 10-minute break every few hours and go outside for a quick walk. If you are unable to go outside, chat with a co-worker for a change of pace or even hit the stairs for a brisk walk. Sometimes a few minutes away from the routine of your job can help ease the stress of a long day. Instead of eating at your desk like many people are tempted to do, pack up a sandwich, grab a good book and go sit outside.  

Driving time does not always have to be stressful in traffic. Get some of your favorite songs on an mp3 player and crank up the music in your car. There is nothing better than singing at the top of your lungs with the windows rolled down and cruising through traffic. So what if singing is not your thing! It will make you feel better to cut loose a little.

 When you get home or if you are a stay at home mom, set aside some time for yourself at home just like you would for an appointment. Write this time down for yourself and post it on the fridge or computer where everyone else will see it as well. There are always going to be a ton of other things you need to be doing, but if you are not happy, no one else is going to be either!  That way you are looking forward to it and everyone knows not to bother you. During your personal “appointment”,   turn on the T.V. and catch a show that you have been dying to see, work on that novel you have been talking about writing, or read a good book.

A great way to relax is to take a long hot shower or tub bath. Fill up your bathroom with scented candles and dim the lights. A hot soak in the tub is not only relaxing but also great for soothing the skin if you use a little sea salts or moisturizing oil. A glass of wine goes quite well with a long soak, too!

If you have kids and find it hard to make time for yourself at home, see if you can get someone to watch them for an hour or two on a Saturday and make an appointment at your local salon and spa. Believe me, a couple of hours of pampering at a salon will have you feeling like a million bucks in no time.  So whatever your thing is to relax, make it enjoyable!