Getting into a regular routine can help us to feel more organised and put together but sometimes the work-life balance tilts too much in one direction and you need to take action.
Taking a break from the daily hustle and bustle is essential for your mind to relax and rejuvenate, which is why we’ve compiled a list of eight activities that could help you to recharge your batteries.
Spa day
There are few places that are as relaxing as a spa, offering a break from the daily routine and a calming environment to unwind with various different treatments available to help reduce tension, stress and provide a much-needed serotonin boost.
Alternatively, you can create your own spa day at home – use an exfoliating body wash, light a few scented candles, pop on a face mask and break out the nice shampoo to help give yourself a lift.
Cooking
Although it might feel intimidating if you haven’t tried it before, cooking has been proven to be an excellent stress reliever and even helps to release feel-good endorphins.
There’s a common misconception that preparing a meal must be a real labour of love but if Jamie Oliver has taught us anything over the years it’s that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated – just take a flick through his back catalogue of 15-minute meals.
Or alternatively you could avail of a meal kit to help you get started, which are provided by the likes of HelloFresh, Purple Carrot and Simply Cook.
Walking
According to the Mental Health Foundation even 10 minutes of brisk walking can increase your mental alertness, energy and positive mood.
However, you don’t have to walk at a fast pace to have stress-relieving benefits. A 30-minute walk five times a week is a great option for general health, stress reduction and overall wellness.
More: The best places for a winter walk in Northern Ireland
Reading
Research conducted by cognitive neuropsychologist Dr David Lewis suggests that “losing yourself in a book is the ultimate relaxation”. He found that reading for as little as six minutes can reduce stress by as much as 68%.
The best books can help us to forget about the stresses of everyday life and transport us to a different time, place or even world.
More: 7 books to read to children, as recommended by our journalists
Gardening
It’s common knowledge that exercise is good for us. The NHS considers it essential to living a healthy and fulfilling life. However, less is known about the role gardening can play in helping to keep you fit and healthy.
In 2021 Harvard Medical School published a study which revealed that 30 minutes of gardening burns off the same number of calories as playing badminton, netball or practising yoga.
But the benefits of gardening don’t stop there, A King’s Fund report also found that tending to your garden can significantly reduce anxiety and depression while also providing opportunities to expand your social circle.
More: Climate change is a double-edged sword: Casual Gardener
Puzzles
Between improving your short-term memory, sharpening your reasoning and enhancing your mood, doing a puzzle is a great way to unwind – especially after a long day.
Although it can be tempting to sprawl in front of the TV or scroll on TikTok, studies have shown screen time is best avoided before bed. Doing a puzzle can help you properly switch off and fall asleep faster. Check out the Irish News puzzles
Knitting & Crocheting
Doctor Herbert Benson, a pioneer in mind/body medicine and author of The Relaxation Response, says that the repetitive action of knitting and/or crocheting can create a relaxed state similar to that associated with meditation or yoga.
Once you get the hang of it, knitting and crocheting can lower heart rate, blood pressure and reduce harmful blood levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
However, unlike meditation and yoga, craft activities provide an end result whether that be a blanket, scarf, jumper or a pair of mittens which creates a strong sense of accomplishment and a more positive mindset.
Travel
Sometimes a change of scenery is needed in order to reset and recharge.
Travelling – whether you’re jet setting across the globe, indulging in a glamorous staycation or packing up the car and going on a road trip- promotes happiness and helps take your mind off stressful situations making you feel calmer and more content.
More: Travels with Lenin, dodging trains and becoming a millionaire in Vietnam
