Everybody has experienced those days where it seems it will be impossible to relax at the end of it. There are so many things in everyday life that can be stressful, from work to school to friends and family and beyond. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of shutting things out for a couple of minutes, taking a few deep breaths, and continuing on with the day, knowing that you WILL make it through! Read on for some great tips and tricks for unwinding and relaxing. From journaling to exercise, Homes.com has covered all the bases!
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Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.
Sometimes the simplest thing is the answer to decompressing. When you are really stressed, you tend to physically tense up and not take long, deep breaths. Try closing your eyes, loosening up your body and taking several deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth. Choose your favorite room in your home for this exercise. Maybe it’s the living room. Maybe it’s your bedroom. You’ll be amazed at what a difference this can make!
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Relax your jaw!
A lot of people carry tension in their jaw. You may find yourself aimlessly typing away at the computer in your home office or study or reading a book all cozied up in your den, and all of the sudden your jaw starts hurting. Open your mouth wide to stretch it out and breath through the nose to relieve discomfort.
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Write it down.
Sometimes, we experience stress because there are so many things going on in our lives and in our heads and we haven’t expressed the way we feel about those things. Don’t feel like talking about it? Journal it! Writing down your feelings is an amazing outlet. If journaling seems like too much, keep a notepad on your refrigerator or on your bedside table and just jot down quick notes, thoughts, feelings, etc.
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Head outside.
Get out of the house! Being in nature surrounded by chirping birds, sunshine, fresh air and lush vegetation can be just the thing to unwind you. Head outside for a walk at lunchtime or for a round of Frisbee in the park on the weekend. Something as simple as sitting out on your patio or back deck can help, too!
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Nap it out.
Often, fatigue can be mistaken for stress. Head to your bedroom or lounge out on the couch to take a 20-minute catnap and you will be astonished at the difference it makes. Just the smallest amount of rest can completely rejuvenate you for the rest of the day.
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Bear those pearly whites!
Even when you are feeling down and out, smiling can make a big difference not only in the way you feel but in the way those around you feel. Spreading just a little bit of cheer through a smile or laughter can lighten the mood and help everyone to relax.
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Throw yourself into a project!
Want to spiff up your home? Maybe you’ve had a cool kitchen or bathroom renovation in mind. Head to the Idea Gallery at Homes.com for ideas on DIY projects, home improvement projects and more!
