When we think of rest and relaxation we often think of ourselves on an exotic beach, with the setting sun, or maybe around a campfire in a mountain resort. Since those moments are often few and far between, how do you find time to relax?
One thing I do know about this road called life is that self-care is crucial for well-being. And while appointments at day spas and weekend getaways help, it is imperative that we take time to relax every day.
We deserve it.
Fortunately, it is possible to incorporate relaxation into our everyday lives. It looks a little different to each of us, so be mindful about what gives you that deep breath and gives you a few moments of bliss.
- Stop to Smell the Roses…or the Lavender I am completely serious. Pleasant fragrances have the ability to calm us, and lavender is known to promote sleep and relaxation.
2. Look Out the Window: There is a rule with this one. It is not OK to be a nosy neighbor. Instead, watch a thunderstorm, the local wildlife, or just watch the day pass by.
3. Get Outside: Fresh air and sunshine? Yes…fresh air and sunshine rejuvenates the soul.
4. Meditate, Pray, or Close Your Eyes
5. Turn Up the Music: You don’t have to be an expert at the new Floss dance. In fact I am not sure I even want to know that, but research shows music can reduce stress and dance is a great form of cardio too. So maybe dance to your own beat, sing the wrong words in the car, spin around with the broomstick, or just sit back and listen. Whatever works for you. 
6. Exercise: It doesn’t matter if you are walking, running, hiking, stretching, swimming doing yoga, or gardening. A few minutes inside, or out, will rest the mind or sweat out the tough stuff.
7. Hug: Be the hugging type. Period.
8. Snuggle Up With a Pet: Our furry friends share one thing with us, unconditional love. Enjoy them. 
9. Keep a Journal: Dear Self….I am trying. A journal is a great way to let go of feelings, create lists, and also a way to think positively. At least once a day write attributes you like about yourself or admire about others. It’s very important that physical traits are not included, because of the focus on well-being.
10. Chew Gum: Curious isn’t it, that gum can reduce stress? It does, and regardless of flavor, gum is two-fold. A minty stick can give you a fresh breath, and a wad of bubble gum can add fun. PS. Be cautious if you are a chomper. You wouldn’t want to cause stress to anyone else. Wink.
11. Enjoy Coffee or Tea
12. Be Present in the Moment: Slow down. Hear everything, feel everything and be in touch with your senses for just a moment. You won’t be sorry. 
Wind Kisses, Donna
How about you? How do you bring relaxation into your daily life. Do you have a time set aside just for you? Do you take breaks in the day? Yoga?
Inspired by Lens Artists Photo Challenge – Time to relax
Wind Kisses 
Lovely post Donna, visually and verbally 🙂
as a meditator I have written many similar only I would leave out the caffeine as too many are addicted and it’s a depressant .. are all these your delightful photos?
LikeLike
Thank you Kate. Your insight means a lot. I almost left coffee out, but truth is I love my mornings that belong to me, and a coffee before I start my day. I do agree though, there are other ways. Yes, almost all the photos on my blog are mine. In fact I can only think of two instances where I used others to make a post work. The two kids are my grandchildren, the kitty is no longer with us, but we had him for 22 years. The last photo is me in Sedona. Nothing greater to me then the gift of time. Thank you again. So appreciate you.
LikeLiked by 3 people
wow they are lovely photos and your grandkids are so full of life and character! Lovely shots.
One or two coffees a day are reasonable but more than that and people forget its a drug of addiction … hence I omit it. But you’ve written yours with more detail and love, I tend to use point form 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
welcome!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great thoughts for the relaxing! These photos are beautifully captured. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Amy. Cant wait to see the other interpretations of the theme. Enjoy your vacation.
LikeLike
Hi Donna, All your photos are so crisp, a lovely post! I had a Spa trip with a friend recently and it was super but you are right we need relaxation time daily. My relaxation habits include reading, messaging & chatting, visiting, blogging a “Just One Minute Monday post”, watching a quiz show, taking a short walk or having a siesta!
LikeLike
I think your One Minute Monday posts are such a great idea, only for me it ends up being an hour. Sometimes I like bogging too much. I think it is fun to go through all my photos and instantly delve into the memories from that time. I think it is a great problem to have though. Smile.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Donna, I’m delighted you think so! That is so encouraging to hear. My One Minute Monday posts are to help me and hopefully others to pause and appreciate one minute’s worth of life…creating them can take up hours though!! That’s something I love about photos, how they can prompt new thoughts or stir memories. True Donna it is a great problem to have…aren’t we blessed! Broad Smile back!
LikeLiked by 1 person
If I only could stick to the list, that would be great. 😀 Still, I’d enjoy the pool in the back. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes… my list is actually a list of lists so I can try to stay organized. lol. Yes the pool is calming, even to look at. And with it 45 degrees C, sometimes it is better just to look. Night swimming is better this time of year. Or early morning.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What? That is the best temperature to be in the water. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Donna I certainly enjoy holidays and special weekends, but yes I often fail to build relaxation into my daily routine
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Abrie. Yes. I think we all do. It is easy to set it aside, especially with work and everything in between. Truthfully I find the first two hours of everyday the best time for my time…for now. Thanks for your note. Glad you are doing the photo challenge with this group. It is a great group of people, and I love catching up with those who enjoy nature and photography like I do. Catch up with you soon.
LikeLike
This is a great reminder of the leisure ethic I teach my university students, that the simple things in life bring the most pleasure and healing! Your beautiful photos show us how it’s done!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Terri. I would love to have been a student in your class. You must absolutely love your work, because not only do you teach it…you also live it and it is reflected in everything you do, from my point of view. A pleasure. Thanks again.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A lovely reminder to slow down and appreciate your moments in life! I like to water my plants for relaxation, or grab my camera and wait for a moment to capture, or read…or all the things you mentioned above!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great minds think alike. 🤣☺️😘
LikeLike
This is a wonderful post, Donna. I really appreciate these steps – and your focus on Self-care overall. To me, it’s one of the greatest foundations I know to forgive. And for years, I practiced acts of Self-care when I wasn’t sure how to love myself, as a way to act “as if”. Now, I know. And I’m still learning. 🙂
Did you take those photos? They’re incredible.
Have a wonderful weekend, Donna.
Love, Debbie
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think the beauty in life is that we DO keep learning.
Yes. Thanks Debbie. All the photos are mine. My blog is more of a collection of memories and impressions for my friends and family. And while I don’t SHARE a lot of personal stuff, I am exactly as I write and know someday my family will feel comfort sitting right here next to me. Always enjoy your visits and the energy from your blog. Enjoy the rest of your weekend as well.
LikeLike
A wonderful post Donna.
One doesn’t need fancy places to relax. We can relax right at place we belong.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Donna, yes, there are many ways to relax. I love the way you point them out. I do take time to relax by gardening, watching and feeding the birds every day. My energy level is not the same as prior to cancer. I could be running around nonstop and didn’t know I was tired. Now I don’t seem to remember what it felt like. I enjoy your post!
LikeLike
Thanks Miriam. We have the appreciation of outdoors together. I am glad you ARE still able to do some of the things you love. Gardening to me is simply therapeutic, and easy to get lost in thought. Thanks for your note. And encouragement.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, exactly, Donna. I call my garden a private sanctuary. When my neighbor said you worked hard, I said, it’s my therapy. Yes, we’re thinking of the same thing. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person