How to Relax When you Can’t Remember How to Relax

The other night the kids were in bed, Nick went to bed early, and I had a rare moment as keeper of all that is sane and insane in the house to stop doing things and relax.

Wait, how do I do that again?

Relaxing?

I vaguely remember something about that from my younger years, but now I have no idea exactly what that means or how to do it.  I’m constantly on the move, which I don’t mind, but here was a chance to get that fabled “me time” I’ve been so desperately seeking for the past 5 years.

It’s an odd feeling to be sitting down rigidly because you’ve forgotten how to turn your body into a fluid entity allowing your body to morph into the shape of the pile of pillows on the couch.

I felt like I was on edge, waiting for someone in the house to wake up and need me.

Relaxing is harder than I remembered!

I eventually figured out how to relax, but it took a little time to get back in the groove. I realized I haven’t been taking care of my rest and relaxation need, so I created a little list to remind myself what I need to do and hopefully it helps you out or inspires you with some ideas to help you relax if you find yourself in the same boat as me.

1. Release Tension: Sometimes if you tense up your muscles, then relax them methodically, it can help your body recognize what it means to relax. What I do is lie down and start tensing up my muscles. I start at my toes, then work my way up to my face. Once everything is tensed up, I start at the face and start relaxing all those muscles until I’m back to my toes. It feels great and I really do feel relaxed when I’m done.
2. Pamper Yourself: Do something to make you feel good. Take a nap, meditate, do your nails, do your makeup, take a bubble bath or hot shower. Do something that makes you feel good, confident or gives you a mood booster. Be creative and show yourself that you deserve a 30 minute break every now and then, or even every day!
3. Exercise: Sometimes the best way to relax is to wear your body out. Do some exercise and us the physical exertion to work out the stress and frustration of the day, then when you’re done, your body will be ready for a break and a little relaxation.
4. Find a Hobby: Being busy with something you love can sometimes be just as relaxing as doing nothing at all.  Even when you’re focused, working hard, and doing what others might not consider relaxation, it can be extremely relaxing. What about painting or reading? Collecting something? One of mine is geocaching! Be creative and try some things out until you find the one that is just right for you.
5. Do Nothing: That’s right, just the opposite of finding a hobby.  Sometimes your mind is so overstimulated that just doing nothing is what you need.  Maybe it’s taking a nap, or just laying on the bed with your eyes closed. I personally like to melt into the couch and watch mindless TV, now that I’ve figured out how to do it again, that is.

What do you need to do when you need to relax? Share your ideas in the comments below.