It can be hard to take the breaks we need. In fact, we often de-prioritize ourselves when we most need a break. The next time you are feeling overwhelmed by deadlines, and the thought of taking a real vacation feels like an impossibility, pause. Take a deep breath. Then, look for some mini-adventures. Yogaaah explains that you may be surprised at the benefits you experience from a short break out of your routine.
Take a Break
Research shows that taking even short breaks from our routine and decision-making activities can increase focus and improve mental health. While standing up, stretching, and sauntering over to the coffee maker might break up your workday, there are other more enjoyable mini-breaks that even you - yes you - can work into your schedule.
Walk your Neighborhood
Start by getting outside for a brief walk. Even if it’s just around the building or up the street, research indicates that a routine stroll can lift your mood, help you maintain your weight, and decrease your chances for some circulation-related health issues. And being out in nature also has amazing health benefits! So, if possible, find a tree-lined street or walk near some flowers, breathe in the crisp air, and absorb some Vitamin D.
Calm Your Mind
Take some time to cultivate calmness, too. Meditation can be helpful if you are feeling anxious and need to center yourself. Yoga can also be a great way to stop your busy mind while also engaging your body. There are different types of yoga and Yogaaah offers online and on site classes including ball therapy and restorative yoga.
Take Time to Play
You may not be able to walk out of work midday for a game of freeze tag, but you can integrate some play breaks throughout your week. If you think you’re too old to play, think again! Play benefits our bodies, brains, and our well-being. What are you waiting for? Get out and play!
Release Your Inner Child
When it comes to playing and having fun, amusement parks and cartoons are an ideal place to get in touch with your inner child. Look into your faves from your youth; while we typically associate stuff like Disney with youngsters, there is plenty for adults. If you love to unwind with Simpsons reruns or want to plan a getaway to a theme park, look online to learn more about inner kid-friendly goodies.
Use Your Outside Voice
Not sure how to play as an adult? Or how to fit play into your week? There are great options you may be overlooking. On a breezy day, you can take Mary Poppins’ advice to go fly a kite. If that feels silly to you, try taking your dog for a walk with no agenda. If you’re looking for an upgrade to a classic kid’s favorite, check out disc golf. It’s an inexpensive pastime and there are likely courses throughout your area.
Pick a Hobby
It’s not always possible to get out and travel, but that doesn’t mean you can’t play when you’re at home. Choose a hobby you’ve been interested in, but haven’t had time to pursue, and pursue it!
There are plenty of great options from learning guitar to painting to gardening and beyond! And who knows? You might find that you can turn your new passion into a side gig. In that case, have fun designing some business cards to get the word out. This tool helps with card design so you don’t have to be a graphic designer to create a professional looking card. Just select a template and customize it using the free tools. Then, get ready to print and distribute!
Savor the Sea
To really ramp up your good feels, consider going to the beach or lake and renting a boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Little is more healing and refreshing than being surrounded by water, and you can charter a getaway to nearly anywhere. Whether it’s the Caribbean, Virgin Islands, or somewhere else that’s beckoning you, if you’re ready for the ultimate outdoor break, rent a yacht. You’ll have an experience and memories that will last a lifetime!
Get Out and Explore
You don’t need a long holiday escape or weekend getaway in order to sightsee. Most people take their cities or towns for granted, but there is history everywhere. Search online to discover historic buildings, nearby townships, understated monuments, original artwork, and more. Then, go on a sightseeing adventure.
Look for traveling events or fairs coming to your area. You may find that you can be a pirate for the day, or travel back in time at a Renaissance Festival. Or there may be a music festival or cultural event happening near you. If the timing just isn’t right, consider a visit to your local zoo!
Put Yourself First for a Change
No matter what you choose, just get out for a little while. If you feel guilty or are afraid you will fall behind on obligations, don’t worry. It is important to have down time that include things like time with friends and family, exercise, and hobbies. You’ll feel better, be more focused, and knock out more tasks with efficiency when you return. Besides, it’s a great opportunity to see and do things on your personal to-do list that didn’t seem important - until now!
Written by Dana Brown of HealthConditions.info
Comments