Not everyone takes downtime that easily. Whether you’re feeling a bit guilty, easily distracted, or even find yourself unwinding in the wrong way, this guide can hopefully help you be at peace with some well-deserved relaxation time.
Figure Out What Relaxes You
What relaxes one person might stress another one out, and forcing yourself to relax is no one’s idea of fun. Try to be aware of how you feel when you’re engaging in a certain activity. Does yoga calm your mind or does it make you feel impatient? Does watching a movie help you unwind or would you rather go on a walk. The question to ask yourself is— do you feel relaxed as a result of that activity?
Make Rest Time Intentional
Commit to your rest time and try not to get sidetracked by distractions online or around the house. Break the “half-rest” tendency and immerse yourself in something that fully relaxes you. When we’re semi-engaged in several activities, our attention is split. This is a recipe for an unrestful day.
Set a Time
While it’s great to be spontaneous, a well-earned rest that you’ve been waiting for can sometimes feel far more rewarding. Putting your relaxation time aside is also a great way to take control of your time. If you feel the need to spend a day binge-watching your favorite shows, make sure to give that to yourself.
Go Easy On Yourself
Guilting yourself is not conducive to “chilling out.” Go into your rest with self-love, acceptance, and a sense of self-deserving. It’s important to have a good relationship with downtime.