Twas the day after Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse!
The holiday excitement is over, the festivities have come to a close, you can finally rest now and get off of your toes.
The children are nestled all snug in their beds,while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads.
You’ve pulled off a holiday season to remember, one that’s worth a slow clap, now after all of the chaos, it’s time for a nap!
All silly rhymes aside, we’re serious about that nap!
After all, we’ve just come out of a season where many of us tend to run around like chickens with our heads cut off. And if you don’t take the time to recharge, you might start to suffer from exhaustion.
Stillness is so important for the body as it lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and allows the body to recoup. So, today, we thought we’d share some suggestions on how to “be still” after this crazy season.
Check them out…
Take a Hot Bath
There’s nothing more relaxing than a hot bath on a cold winter’s night.
This week, set aside an hour or so of uninterrupted time and take a hot bath. Then, grab your favorite book, turn on some music, or simply rest as you enjoy the comfort of a warm tub.
If you have children, we recommend you have your partner take the kids out for the evening to grab dinner or go see a movie. After all, the last thing you want is little Timmy interrupting your time of stillness because he can’t find the toilet paper!
Rest in Your Favorite Chair
Most people have a favorite chair that they like to to relax in. You know, the soft, cozy one that cradles you as you let your tired body sink into it?
The moment your house gets quiet, take advantage of that time by spending some quiet time in your favorite chair. Grab a soft blanket, and perhaps a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea, and just sit.
Don’t turn on the TV or grab a book. Just be. Reflect on all the amazing holiday memories that you’ve made, breathe, relax, and enjoy the stillness.
Meditate
Meditation is proven to lower blood pressure and refocus your mind–two benefits people often need after a crazy holiday season.
Not to mention, a study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison also indicates that meditation reduces the grey-matter density in areas of the brain related with anxiety and stress.
Clearly, meditation is the ultimate key to relaxation. So, how exactly do you meditate?
Check out this FREE 30-day meditation program via YouTube that’s specifically for beginners.
Visit Your Favorite Outdoor Spot and Sit Quietly in Nature
There’s something magically rejuvenating about the stillness of a winter’s day.
If you live in a cold climate, the simple act of sitting on the cool ground while watching snowflakes fall from the sky is peaceful and relaxing.
And, if you live in a warmer climate, you can enjoy the same serenity while watching leaves rustle on the ground or birds flying from tree to tree.
Nature is the perfect environment for being still, letting your mind rest, and reenergizing as you silently watch the beauty that’s all around you. Take a trip to your favorite outdoor spot, soak in the peace and calm, and leave feeling renewed.
Relax While Listening to Your Favorite Peaceful Music
Did you know that music has the ability to disorient rhythmic brain activity in the thalamus and the brain’s outer cortex?
It’s this phenomenon that enables music to make us feel happy and relaxed when we listen to peaceful, calm music.
Schedule some time this week and lie in a dark, quiet room. Then, plug in your headphones and play some classical music or calm music from your favorite genre.
Note: This is not the time for headbanger music, even if it’s your favorite music. Stick to soft, gentle tunes. Otherwise, the sounds of loud, chaotic music will have a reverse effect and the potential to hype you up instead of settling you down.
What is your favorite way to relax and be still? Let us know in the comments below!
