Types of Rest

This post is all about my top ways of resting and relaxing your body and mind. These will not work for everyone, but I hope you are able to try them and find a calm sense of destress. I have been able to use the steps below to get myself out of work and school mode and remind myself that I am allowed to take breaks. As we continue through this difficult time, I hope everyone is staying healthy and safe. We must continue to work together by staying apart. Right now, we are stronger as an isolated community. Seven is my magic number, so below you will be able to find my top seven ways of resting and de-stressing. Whether it be eating or traveling, I have a goal to always find ways for my body and mind to take a break and have fun!

Seven Ways to Rest and Destress

1. Exercise-

This is number one for me. Not only am I able to keep my body healthy, but I can let go and not think about anything but my body. I have always loved dancing and I am definitely missing all of my fellow performers while at home. For the time being, I refuse to compromise my lifelong stress reliever. So a few times a week, I lock myself in my room or my bathroom, play some music, and just move along with the sound. To some people this may be extremely awkward and weird, but when you have the moment to "dance like nobody's watching" (literally), you have the chance to feel free and to completely feel like you without the judgement of someone else's eyes. Another great way to keep your body up and moving can be by taking a walk once a day. The feeling of fresh air after being locked in the house all day is more than amazing. It will make you feel refreshed and you can take the time to really feel in touch with the earth and all that it has to offer.

2.Take a Bath-

A candle, my chill vibes playlist, rose water, apple cider vinegar, eucalyptus oil, and epsom salt. Need I say more! All of the perfect ingredients to relaxing and detoxifying bath that calms your body and mind. I started taking baths weekly when I was in my Junior year in high school to help with my back pain. This has been something I look forward to every Saturday night and helps me prepare for whatever I have heading my way in the next week.

3.Listen to Music-

One of my biggest hobbies for as long as I can remember has been creating playlists. I like being able to create something that reflects my mood and I can move or sing along to.I have numerous playlists on Spotify and during the week I like to lie down on my bed and just listen to one of my playlist for about 20 minutes. I give myself the freedom to sing, just listen to the lyrics, get inspired and write, or do a light meditation. This helps you to really get in touch with your feelings and emotions.

4.Turn Off Your Phone for a Few Hours-

I know, especially now, that we are all glued to technology. We are constantly trying to find ways to stay connected with the rest of the world, but we forget to stay connected with ourselves. By turning off your phones for just a few hours a day, you are able to get in your head and be with yourself. That's one of the scariest things. I could go on for hours and share with you all of the crazy thoughts that are running through everyone's heads during the pandemic. It's tough to be with yourself, but most of the time it's good for you to be able to think and process your thoughts.

5.Eat a Cheat Meal-

Yum! I love baking and cooking and for the most part I like to make my own meals and eat clean during the week ,but when I feel stressed, I give myself the chance to eat what I want and let loose. I like being able to have the occasional 2 cookies with some ice cream or even making my own ice cream sundae filled with all the sugary goodness. It's a chance to have fun with a recipe if I am cooking or just learn to give my body a break.

6.Re-watch a Movie-

I'm not a doctor, but I have a strong belief that watching a new movie can make your brain work differently. I think that every time you re-watch a movie you are not working to find the killer, see who's gonna end up with who, or how they will escape the murder house. For me to relax, I think the best types of movies and tv shows to watch when you are trying to rest your mind. The goal is to not have your brain on ten and to instead keep a calm mood.

7.Sleep-

Just sleep. Go take a nap. Go avoid people and things for a short amount of time and be with yourself and your dreams. Not only will you be able to get your body to rest, but your brain will too!

I hope you are able to rest while at home. Remember to not just work, study, and stress. Our bodies are not built for the mental and physical harm that isolation can cause. Be free and give in to the temptation of rest every once in a while. It's Okay!