With winter here it’s common to feel a bit depleted of energy, therefore it can be beneficial to spend extra time caring for yourself and relieving stress. After a long work day or whenever you have free time, try a few of these methods to unwind.
Herbal tea | I don’t know about you, but for me stress always starts in the pit of my stomach. If you’re feeling uneasy or anxious try drinking herbal tea to calm it. The smell, taste and warmth are comforting so it’s great any time you need to ease inner tension.
Incense and candles | Whether I’m working or relaxing I enjoy burning incense and candles to create a pleasant atmosphere for myself. I usually choose the scent based on what I’m doing, such as lavender incense for relaxing and cedarwood while working. I also like to keep a candle lit nearby. Besides smelling nice, the sound of the fire flickering is therapeutic.
Yoga and meditation | Yoga and Meditation are both extremely beneficial in calming nerves and regaining focus. They can be especially beneficial first thing in the morning to get your day started on the right foot, or before bed in order to relax.
Exercise | I don’t think there’s anything a jog can’t fix, even when I’ve had a hectic day running always makes me feel better. It’s as if I’m sweating away all the stress and afterwards when my body feels light, I know all the tension has been released from my muscles.
Spending time in nature | This is by far my favorite way to regain inner peace. Going outside, breathing in the fresh air, spending time with the trees and foliage, passing cute critters along the way, walking on the grass and dirt, it’s the best feeling in the world. Nature can take you away from reality for a bit into your own world filled with the most beautiful things the earth has to offer. It gives you time to think, reflect and come to terms with different aspects of your life.
A good book | Reading is another way you can escape reality for a bit. Getting lost in a book can help you forget about your troubles and can also give you perspective on a situation. Candles burning, a hot bath and a good book are the best ways to relax on a cold winter’s night.
Journaling | Journaling is a great way to figure out what might be causing you stress. Writing not only helps you reflect on internal and external issues, it can also shed light on all the good in your life that you’re missing out on by focusing on the negative. I find writing out what I’m grateful for can make any bad day better.
Having a creative outlet | Drawing, painting, coloring, knitting, sewing, singing, playing an instrument or whatever else you can think of, find a creative outlet you thoroughly enjoy and do it. Creating something out of nothing is therapeutic in itself.
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