"Take a breather". It's National Relaxation Day!

"Take a breather" That's what Lindy my Pilates instructor always says between each Pilates routine. What she's saying is "take a breath or two" so you are recharged for the next exercise. Today is National Relaxation Day, a whole day dedicated to "take a breather". I had never heard of it until I opened an email this morning that said, " Take a break, its National Relaxation Day" An entire day dedicated to relaxation? It turns out a nine-year-old boy, Sean Moeller, pitched the idea for a National Day of Relaxation in 1985. And although you won't see this on any calendars, August 15th is the unofficial celebration of all things relaxing! So, if you are reading this now, chances are your day has already started so it's time to, as Lindy would say, "stop and take a breather"! That being said, let's celebrate this day with a little extra R&R!

1. Schedule 5-10 minutes of absolutely nothing. 

Some might say, "easier said than done", but the key to relaxing is to do nothing, even for a moment. We often feel we have to be doing "something" which makes it harder to just relax. I'm one of those people who is always doing something. Plus, with all the everyday stresses we have it's hard to relax. So, one of the ways I achieve this is by just lying down for 15 minutes. Close my eyes and try to clear my mind. Two things that help me do this are music and this weighted sleep mask from Nodpod. I had read about this sleep mask several times and the reviews were always great, so I decided to give it a try. Well, all the hype is real. Nodpod describes it as a "hug for your head" and if you have any trouble sleeping or getting up in the middle of the night and falling back to sleep, this is for you! It puts me out immediately, so much so that I have to set the timer on my watch to wake me up! It blocks out light, can be used in any sleeping position, and freezer friendly for migraines, headaches or just tired eyes. Nodpod says the "gentle pressure calms an overactive mind in minutes." And I will tell you it works for me. If staying or falling asleep is your problem, definitely give this a try!

Homedics makes the ultimate sound machine! It's called a White Noise Sound Machine, and it includes 6 digitally recorded relaxing sounds designed to mimic the natural environment: White Noise, Thunder, Ocean, Rain, Summer Night, and Brook. It's compact and portable, so it fits in my suitcase or even my purse. Once you try this, you won't know how you lived without it! So, between this and my sleep mask, I've had at least 15 minutes of relaxation or more!

2. Practice yoga or meditation

This has always been hard for me. People that do yoga swear by it, but I have always had trouble getting into the different poses. But this ancient relaxation technique is still around for a reason. Tying breath to movement is a great way to bring attention to your mind and body. I learned this in Pilates.

There are different types of yoga and meditation, so try a few before you decide it’s not for you.  I actually found a form that I love. It's called Surendar Yoga. If you have practiced "mindfulness" you will love this. Basically, it involves lying down on a nice, cushiony yoga mat, closing your eyes, listening to some soft music and, if you are in a class, listening to the melodic chant of the instructor, breathing, enjoying the scent of the meditation candles and just "surrendering" to the moment. My gym has classes in this, and I have literally fallen asleep during the class, so I also let the instructor know not to worry if I'm just lying there. After an hour, I am relaxed and feel great. Another yoga on the same order is called Yoga Nidra. This is a guided meditation yoga, and I can't tell you how wonderful this is. If you have a chance to try type of yoga, I encourage you to do so.

3. Get a massage

Nothing is quite as relaxing as getting a professional massage. But if traffic, parking, and crowded spas take away from your experience, try this: book on at-home massage. Of course, you will need to get your significant other involved for this, but it could be fun and relaxing for both of you! Light the candles, pour a glass of wine, and relax!

4. Go outside 

It’s no secret that nature has healing properties! So, try to spend time outside on your relaxation day. If active relaxation is your thing, take a hike, bike ride, or long walk. I'm into pickleball and that does the trick for me. Whatever is on my mind is gone for the hour or two I'm playing. If passive relaxation is more your thing, head to the beach, or pool or park with a good book and some healthy snacks. I'm headed for the pool this afternoon after my Pilates class. What if you only have 5 minutes? No problem: find a shady bench and just relax in the great outdoors.

5. Unplug and unwind 

Take a break from technology. We’re so connected all the time, and that can actually increase your stress! Take a moment on National Relaxation Day to put down your phone, close the laptop, and turn off the TV. You can read a book, go for a walk, or just simply be present in the tech-free moment.  If you are looking for a couple of good books to read, here are a couple I've read recently. The first is Falling by TJ Newman and the second, Drowning, is also by her. She's an ex-flight attendant gone novelist and she's amazing. She's writes books that you can't put down and your sad when you've finished them. The book I'm reading now, "5 Star Weekend" by Elin Hilderbrand is totally different and very good too. Ironically, it's about a woman who decides to become food blogger! I'm not going to tell you anymore! You're just going to have to get it!

6. Take care of your skin, hair, nails and feet!

A little self-care is the perfect way to celebrate this holiday. When we look good, we feel good! So, schedule a relaxing facial with a professional esthetician or do the facial I talked about in the Art of the Facial. No time for the entire facial? Put on a mask. Bliss Mighty Marshmallow or a Glam Up sheet mask are both good choices. Is it time to "up your look" with a new hair cut or try some new hair products? Want a sleek look? Try Wow's Supercoat. Want to a bombshell? Try Wow' Bombshell Volumizer.. Nails? Go for a manicure or do this OPI at home. Try Homedics foot spa for the ultimate foot bath experience! Add some of this Tea Tree Oil soak to your foot bath to bring it up a notch. And speaking of baths, why not treat yourself to a luxurious soak. How about adding these adorable bath bombs? Rather a relaxing shower? Add these shower steamers to turn your shower into a spa! The key to making all of this a relaxing experience is very simple. Don’t think about anything other than yourself!

7. Get some extra ZZZs

Most adults don’t get enough sleep. So, treat yourself to a few extra minutes of blissful rest for National Relaxation Day. Go to bed a little earlier or set your alarm 30 minutes later. You’ll be surprised at the difference a few minutes can make! Don't forget to put on your

Nodpod and turn on your Homedics Sound Machine. Treat yourself to a Blissy Silk Pillowcase. Not only great for your hair but helps keep your pillow cool for a "blissful" night's sleep.

8. Do what makes you happy

The most important factor when planning your National Relaxation Day activities is your happiness. Just because hiking makes some people feel relaxed, doesn’t mean you have to do it, too! We’re most relaxed when we’re comfortable and happy. So however you plan to celebrate, make sure it involves something you love. 

Now that I'm finished writing this, it looks like National Relaxation Day is almost over! If that's the case, let's make National Relaxation Day August 16th, just for this year!

Liz❤️

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