Rest & Relaxation: Good for the Mind, Body, and Soul

Working on rest and relaxation in my day-to-day life.

Rest and relaxation (R&R), what is that? Three months ago, I hardly took the time to just sit back and relax. I was always on the go.

Photo by Ashley Whitlatch on Unsplash

While rest has never been much of an issue for me, it was the relaxation piece that I struggled with.

• When would I have time to relax?

• What would I do to relax?

• How do I even relax?

It had been so long since I actually relaxed that I was lost. Rest was my relaxation, but what other things could I do to release tension and stress?

Some people wait until their monthly massage or their week-long vacation. Me, I find small moments throughout my day for rest and relaxation.

What R&R Looks Like for Me

1. Prayer, yoga, and meditation

This is how I begin my mornings. It truly sets the tone for my day. I focus on God and an intention for the day. It helps me to be more at ease. Trusting that He will guide me.

Any worries or fears, I give it to Him. We can get so caught up in what needs to be done, that we forget to be present. Prayer and meditation help me to focus on the now and cast my cares on Him.

Yoga is a great stretch. After hours of sleeping, yoga has been helpful for stretching my joints, muscles, lungs, and mind. The deep breathing helps me relax and be calm.

2. Sitting outside on the porch

I finally understand why my grandmother would sit outside on the porch so much. It is peaceful just to sit back and take in God’s creation. I have gotten in the habit of watching the sunrise. I listen to the sounds of nature and relax.

I sit out there for a few minutes, but in those minutes, I enjoy the stillness. It awakens all of my senses.

3. Chamomile Tea

A friend of mine bought me the mug pictured above. It is one of my favorite mugs, but I have never been a fan of coffee (no offense to the coffee drinkers out there). I just never liked the taste. I enjoy tea, specifically chamomile tea.

Chamomile is a soothing tea. It is not caffeinated, and it is good for relaxation. It has many different health benefits as well. It has a great taste and puts me at ease.

4. Reading

It has been a long time since I have read for pleasure. I used to read often, but after my studies, I lost interest. I forgot how relaxing reading can be. It takes you to another world where you’re engulfed in the story. I try to find a quiet time in the day to kick up my feet and read.

5. Music and aromatherapy

I enjoy tranquility. Music and aromatherapy take me to this place. I choose music that is soft and tranquil. No words, just the instruments.

At times, I will have my oil diffuser with my essential oil of choice, usually lavender. I have not used my diffuser as often, but I plan to incorporate this more throughout my day.

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Although vacations and massages are nice, we cannot do those things every day. I needed something more practical for my day-to-day life. I would love to try guided imagery next. That would be a simple exercise to help me relax.

What does rest and relaxation look like for you? Do you have any suggestions?

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