From a stressful finals week to an impossible work deadline, everyone needs time to relax. Sometimes, however, relaxing can be more difficult than running five miles straight, because your mind is constantly thinking of all the things that are stressing you out. If you need some help relaxing, then try out these four calming activities (they’ll blow your mind).
1) Bubble Baths
Bubble baths are a must after a crazy, hectic day. Dr. Michael R. Irwin, director of UCLA’s Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, suggests that the stillness experienced while soaking in the bathtub can be extremely beneficial to your mental state. So whip out those bubbles and get to bathing.
2) Yoga
Yoga is a calming activity that is also considered exercise. Yoga gives you a peaceful state of mind, and can also release endorphins (because you are exercising). If you want to get some physical activity in and end up feeling uber relaxed, then get into downward dog (or warrior) and start yoga-ing.
3) Art
Art is an awesome way to express yourself. From doodling to full on painting, expressing yourself through art is a great way to let your emotions out. Even if you’re not Picasso, taking paint to paper can be a great, relaxing emotional outlet. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next Pollack (because he’s way cooler than Picasso right?).
4) Listening to music
Listening to music is more relaxing than you would think. From Taylor Swift to Kanye West (throwback to their awkward interaction at the Grammy’s), your favorite genre of music is sure to make you feel happy. Lay back in bed before you go to sleep, or if you have an hour to yourself and just let the music carry you. It’s a truly relaxing experience.
5) Meditation
Meditation is the ultimate relaxed state. While it involves more concentration and practice than the language arts section on the SATs, once achieved it can be amazing. Mind Body Green suggests that when “practicing… meditation, you’ll keep your mind flexible and enhance your life both in and out of meditation”.
Via Flickr/Fiona Ayerst
