Life keeps on getting busier, doesn’t it? Just when you think things will start to settle down, something ends up speeding your routine along. And hey, it’s going to carry on like this for a pretty long time until your kids are out of the house fending for themselves. Life as a parent is a complete whirlwind and it’s all too easy to be swept up in it. You’re stressed all the time, your friends are stressed and there’s no way out. Is this simply what you have to deal with now?!
Yes and no. Yes, you will have to deal with life being fast-paced and stressful. No, you don’t have to spend every waking second stressed and burnt out. Follow these three steps to unwind after a busy day. You can do them daily, so at least your evenings end on a peaceful note!
Have a long shower or bath
Showering and bathing are both extremely relaxing. They make you feel refreshed as you wash away the day’s sweat and come out of the bathroom smelling like a new person. It’s invigorating and somewhat symbolic. Ending your days with a shower/bath is like you’re washing away all the stress and starting anew.
Sure, if you had to choose between the two, a daily bath would be heavenly. You won’t always have time for this, so a shower is a good compromise. Try to work in at least one bath a week for pure relaxation.
Meditate for 5-10 minutes
Meditation is incredibly calming and it helps you practice mindfulness. Sit or lie down with your eyes closed and focus on deep breathing. Take a breath for 3 seconds in, hold it for a second, then breathe out again for 3 seconds. All the while, try to focus on being in the now. Don’t think about anything else other than what’s around you. Focus on the texture of the carpet or the smell in the air.
A 5-10 minute meditation session every night before bed chills you out and helps switch your mind off. Combine this with a bit of CBD oil and the relaxation benefits multiply. It’s one of the easiest things you can do and you’ll discover a better night’s sleep after as well.
Read or listen to an audiobook/podcast
Lastly, round off your evening by reading a book or listening to something on your phone. Reading is one of the most calming activities ever. It transports you to a different place and makes you forget about everything else in your life. Use it as a means to escape – but the act of reading also slowly tires you out. If you have trouble sleeping or relaxing before bed, this is a great way to counter that.
As mentioned, you could listen to an audiobook or podcast as an alternative. Audiobooks are probably better as they provide the same sense of escapism. If you do opt for a podcast, maybe try an ASMR one as they’re shown to be great for getting you to relax.
It’s a simple bedtime routine yet these three steps will bring you so much happiness. Your days can slow down and you take time to relax and feel zen. It helps in the morning as you feel more refreshed but this routine also gives you something to look forward to during the day. You can get through the whirlwind of life when you know there are relaxing moments at the end.
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