10 Ways To Aid Relaxation
We've been thinking about how small adjustments to our daily routines can make big differences to how we feel in ourselves and aid us in our day to day lives.
Here are some of our favourite tips.
Ways to Destress & Unwind
1) Get Appy
When we think of ways to relax, using our phones isn't always the first thing that springs to mind. But there are actually loads of apps on the market designed for just that. From guided meditation apps and mindfulness apps to ones that encourage better dailty habits and even therapy apps, there are loads to try.
2) Unplug
As tempting as it may be to quickly reply to that email at 10 pm, it's better to put the phone down, shut the laptop and savour time away from the screen.
3) Move Your Body
A great way to keep your physical and mental health in check is to get moving. If you don't fancy going out for a run in the wet or cold, you could try some yoga or a bodyweight workout at home instead (and why not try out our Cold Infuse range to keep you hydrated).
4) Take a Break
It's easy to get caught up in being busy and forget to take a break. Combat this by actively scheduling in a five minute time out. If you find you begin to flag by 3pm, why not make that your time to stick the kettle on and take ten minutes to yourself? Decaffeinated teas and caffeine-free infusions are the perfect accompaniment for ten minutes of time out.
You could even try this simple tea meditation.
5) Just Breathe
Taking a couple of moments to focus on your breathing can help relieve some stress if you’re feeling particularly frazzled. Try to concentrate on breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth slowly, at a rate that’s comfortable for you.
Start with breathing in for four and out for four.
6) Try a New Hobby
Life is full of to-do lists and admin, and a great way to counterbalance this is with a hobby. If things are getting on top of you, trying out a new hobby could be just the escape you need. Arts and crafts like painting or sewing are great ideas, or you could try baking, playing a musical instrument or gardening.
Growing your own herb garden is a great stress reliever.
7) Use a Massage Ball
Investing in a massage ball and spending some time working out a bit of tension while you’re sat in front of the TV, or even at your desk, can be just what’s needed when you’re feeling a bit run down. Try rolling your feet over it, roll it against your neck and upper back against the back of your chair or a wall, or even try one of the many guided massages on YouTube.
8) Stretch
Why not try a short stretching routine or a simple yoga class when you need to take a break? This inexpensive way to unwind only needs a bath towel or similar to lie on, and you’re away. There are loads of routines available online you could try out – try a few to see what you enjoy.
9) Make a Chillout Playlist
Putting on your favourite relaxing songs while you take a moment to sit at the end of the day is a great way to help any residual tension melt away. In fact, setting aside a bit of time to arrange your favourite relaxing songs into the ideal chillout playlist can be a great way to unwind in itself. And if the mood and music take you, you can even dance it out!
10) Try Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a form of meditation, where you practice paying attention to the present, taking time to acknowledge your feelings and what’s happening around you. We’ve got a great beginner’s guide if you're interested in learning more about mindfulness and meditation. Practising mindfulness for just a few minutes a day can help your mental wellbeing, allowing you to see situations more clearly instead of becoming overwhelmed.
Whatever you do, be sure to weave some relaxation into your day.
Twinings Superblends
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Twinings Downtime Playlist
Filled to the brim with some of the most relaxing and calming songs, this playlist is perfect for those downtime chill sessions.
What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is actually a simple type of meditation. It's the practice of making a conscious effort to pay attention to the present moment, what is happening around you and what you're feeling.
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