I did an experiment to determine how I could relax quickly and without much fuss.  Fussing is not the way to get in the zen zone.  However, the following five things will, at least, get you going in the right direction.

1.

Prepare a nice cup of Chamomile Tea, sit in your favorite chair, and sip it slowly while you think about a calm, blue sea lapping onto a white sandy beach.  If you’re lucky enough to actually live on the beach…you know what to do.

2.

Remove yourself from all  noise, light, and clutter…don’t laugh.  I know this one is going to be tough for you mommies out there, but at least try…OK.  Anyway, when you have created your place-of-peace, even if it’s a closet or the bathroom, focus on relaxing each part of your body.  Stay there for twenty-thirty minutes if you can.

3.

Fill your home with aromatherapy.  My faves for relaxing are lavender, vanilla, sandalwood, pumpkin, and jasmine.  Try to find good quality oils or candles.  They last longer and are made with a higher standard.

4.

Look at family photos.  This is one of the most satisfying and relaxing thing you can do.  Well, that is if they are accessible and not in a horrific mess at the bottom of a drawer.  Looking at pictures of loved ones, of the precious memories of your past is enriching in so many ways, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

5.

Get outside.  Yes, get up from your desk, the computer, the dungeon-esque place you spend most of your time…if you’re a blogger, anyway.  For the rest of you normal people, the transition to the outside world won’t be a big deal.  When you get there, listen to nature do its thing.  The birds, the wind, children playing in the yard, a flowing creek are all sounds that will lull you into a happy place if you let them.

Taking time to relax is a necessary part of wellness.  Without a time to just “be”, we are destined to hit a brick wall called “burn out”.  You deserve to rest, relax, and enjoy your life.  Working every minute of every day is not going to produce the joy you desire.  I hope you find time to breathe deep, sit alone, dream big, and see the beauty around you.  Be well-be beautiful-be happy.

You might also enjoy this article at MayoClinic.com.

Photo by My Pantomine