Amidst such a busy time of the academic year, I have found, winding down ever more important this semester. I find it difficult to switch off from work, even when lying in bed! This post also falls a day after Mental Health Awareness day, so I felt it was a fitting opportunity to write. I've compiled a list of my favourite ways I use to wind down, which you may have used too.
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| Photo credit: Sam Holden |
1. Take a bath
There is nothing more soothing than taking a bath at the end of a long day. The task of literally cleansing the day away is a really great way to ensuring your body and mind are in the right place to winding down. I often find that I need to focus on something rather than lie there worrying about all the things I should've done, so for me I find an inspirational Ted Talks and get my daily dose of heartwarming motivation.
2. Meditate
You could also listen to a meditation YouTube video. These are excellent for completely switching off. Mindfulness is proven to relax and de-stress you, allowing you to appreciate your body, senses and thoughts in the moment. One of my favourite channels for this is The Honest Guys. Once I have my noise cancelling head-phones in, I'm away.
3. Have a black-out hour
I have to put my hands up and say this is something that I struggle with, my closest family and friends know that I am surgically attached to my iphone! If you think you can do even just one hour, aim to switch off all devices, including the TV. Read a book, take a walk, draw, colour, paint...do anything that doesn't involve the horrible emission of blue light, that we are attached to. Also on another great positive, this reduces the effect of wrinkles in your neck (from looking down at the screen!)
4. Exercise
Even a gentle walk can get your endorphins going which make you feel naturally happier and more positive. If a full blown work-out is for you, I love following it with a long jacuzzi, sauna and steam. It really relaxes my muscles and prevents any build-up of lactic acid after running.
If you can do even one of these a day, you will notice the benefits. The trick is to not putting the pressure on yourself to make big changes, small steps can go a long way in making you feel a lot happier.
Sophie x
