Was it ‘one of those weeks’? Were your weekdays jam-packed with meetings, phone calls, emails and the occasional mind wandering texts/Facebook updates/nose powdering breaks? After a whirlwind week like that you would only have a stress free and relaxing weekend on your mind regardless of whether it’s been a productive week or one spent spinning your wheels, you just need a break! How you unwind can greatly affect your sense of well being, so here are 5 simple things you can do at home this weekend that would relax you and set you in the right frame of mind for the week ahead.
A warm soak
Water is a terrific de-stressor. Take a hot bubble bath by candlelight with some soft jazz playing. Or, if you only have a few minutes, soak your feet in some herb-infused warm water. Swimming is another really terrific way to release stress, for those who can swim though. The underwater silence combined with the rhythmic arm movements of your strokes can be so soothing.
Dance
Play your favorite tunes and try out some silly moves in your living room (just make sure you don’t disturb the neighbours!). Moving your body and singing along is a great way to shake off all that built-up muscle tension.
Curl up in bed and watch a movie
Get in bed and see a movie (no violence, no horror!), something subtle like romance or comedy; laughter can do a lot when it comes to calming your nerves. While watching, a snack and drink on the side would be good company. If you have a partner, even better!
Meditate
No need to go on a retreat to the mountains—five minutes of peace is all it takes to reap the benefits of meditation. Just two quick bouts of silent meditation can relieve stress and depression . Find a comfortable spot in a quiet place, concentrate on your breath, and feel those anxieties start to disappear.
Indulge in some junk food
Indulge for a little bit in something sweet, something salty, or something sweet and salty (chocolate covered pretzels, ice cream…mmm…). The thought of having some calms me already. A little wouldn’t hurt!
Hang out with friends
Having a few friends over is another way to let the steam off. Share a meal, snack and drinks while you catch up on things you’ve missed, share gist, jokes and laugh. The soothing effect is unimaginable!
Have yourselves a fabulous weekend!
