Sometimes in life, we just need a break to relax and rejuvenate our minds. We are constantly trying to improve ourselves and working beyond our limits, but what about when that starts to hurt our mental and physical health? It is important to schedule in time to relax, which will eventually increase our overall productivity.
When we focus too hard on a project, our brains often struggle with originality and clarity. Often, all you need to do is stop thinking for a moment and take a break from that task. Then, upon your return, you will have fresh new ideas and fresh new energy.
Here are 20 things that you can do when your brain needs to take a break:
1. Go for a walk.
Try to go to a different place each day. Walking is good for the mind, heart and body. Sometimes fresh air is all you need to clear your mind and think better.
2. Do some chores.
Chores may not be an ideal way to spend your free time, but who doesn't feel better after completing a load of laundry or cleaning your room? It is a perfect way to still be productive, while clearing your mind.
3.Start a blog about something you are passionate about.
We all have that thing we could talk for hours about. Whether it is food, fashion, animals or politics: there are people out there who want to listen to what you have to say. Writing is one of the best stress-relievers out there.
4. Catch up on some much needed sleep.
Often sleep deprivation is the one of the biggest causes of stress. Catch up on sleep and you will find that your focus will reach a whole new level.
5. Bake desserts and then eat.
Did you know stressed spelled backwards is desserts? What a coincidence, or maybe not....
6. Do something nice for a friend or a family member or even a total stranger.
Is it a low self-esteem sort of day for you? Are you feeling not like your best self? What could help is doing a simple act of kindness for someone. Maybe writing a letter to your friend about why you love him/her or paying for someone's drink.
7. Go to the gym.
Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve stress. Take 30 minutes out of your day to hit the treadmill or elliptical, increase your heart rate and feel more alive. You won't only sleep better, but you will study and focus better.
8. Organize and redecorate your room.
Sometimes it is hard to study or complete tasks when nothing is in the right place and it feels like you are living in a pig pen. Paper everywhere, pens in the wrong spot and clothes all over the floor- pick up your room, organize or even redecorate it to feel more studious.
9. Call a friend.
Talking to people, whether in person or on the phone, always brings a smile to the face. Pick up the phone and catch up with an old friend or just talk to your best friend about your day- you are sure to feel happier afterwords. Also, your friend would probably be happy to brainstorm ideas if you need a new perspective on a project.
10. Learn to play an instrument.
Ukulele, Piano, Vocal, Drums, Violin: playing an instrument can be a very relaxing endeavor.
11. Learn to knit.
Knitting can be a fun, time-consuming way to relax your mind. It is very meditative. For anyone who needs to move their hands in times of pressure or anxiousness, learn to knit! You can also make beautiful clothing, so that is a bonus!
12. Do a puzzle.
Or a crossword, or sudoko or a brain teaser! Get your brain thinking and investing in something difficult and different. Plus, you can get them for free on the internet!
13. Make some lists.
Stressed about something coming up? Make a list! To do list, a goals list, a wish list, a bucket list, a shopping list: and enjoy crossing items off items as you go along. Add color and different fonts to enhance your list making.
14. Start a new TV show on Netflix.
There is no better way to free your mind of life's issues than losing yourself in a new reality (aka. a TV show). Binge watch or catch up on a TV show.
15. Watch a movie.
Don't have time to start a new TV show? How about just a 1.5 hour movie?
16. Catch up on other school work.
There is no better way to relax than finishing up some of the homework that make you the most stressed. Take it slow and steady, and before you know it: you will be feeling a lot more relaxed. Switching subject every 30 minutes will keep your brain be engaged with the present topic at hand.
17. Write handwritten letters to your friends.
Texts, emails and social media are ruling this world at the moment. People have stopped taking the time to write notes and letters to one another, when you can send it much quicker through the phone. However, handwritten letters are very exciting. Write a letter to someone your know and make their day!
18. Explore a new area.
Whether you live in Memphis, Washington DC, New York City, Denver: There is always a place to explore. Maybe it is a hidden alley in Downtown Memphis or a different monument, grab a few friends and go discover something new!
19. Read a good book.
Nothing better than reading a book on a lazy day. There is something special and very relaxing about being able to enter a fictional world through literature.
20. Listen to music.
Feeling an emotion you can''t explain? I am sure there is a Spotify playlist for that! Relax and unwind before bed or in the morning with listening to some good music.
I hope that you all will try a few of these things the next time you feel as if you have brain fog. Or maybe, next time you need to take a break, come up with your own list.
What are your favorite things to do when your mind needs to relax?
