We all have those days where we are exhausted and just need a day to ourselves to do nothing and relax. I get those days every month and I used to feel bad about it. I would get upset with myself that I couldn't be more of a help. I would feel horrible that I wasn't productive that day, but it is an important lesson to learn that it's OKAY to take a break, to take some time to yourself when you need it, and simply do nothing.
Taking care of yourself is very important. Often, we focus so much on all the things we should do to care for others, be good people, work hard, etc., but it's possible to focus too much on doing those things that we wear ourselves out. That is why time to yourself is so important. Your body and mental state depend on it. The last thing we should do is feel guilty about lying in bed for a day and taking a break from work, or school, or life.
When you feel stressed, depressed, or exhausted listen to your body and give yourself the extra time you need. Find what helps relax you the most and when you need it don't feel bad, just embrace it and take care of yourself. Here are a few things I like to do to relax.
1. Drink tea
There is a tea for every mood. It's warm, delicious, healing, and relaxing. Tea is my go to for relaxation.
2. Sleep
I can't begin to say how much I love sleep. Nothing can beat that feeling of curling up with a warm fuzzy blanky, closing your eyes, and sleeping. If you are tired, stressed, achy, it's okay to get some extra sleep. You will feel more rejuvenated and ready to go because of it.
3. Aroma therapy
Recently I finally got an oil diffuser and essential oils. I really enjoy lavender for relaxing. Mint and eucalyptus are also nice. When I really want to relax it helps to smell something nice as I drink my tea and curl up with a nice blanket.
4. Cuddles
We all need cuddles sometimes and if you do just say so. Hugging increases endorphins and makes us calm and happy. If you don't have a human you can regularly cuddle, cats or other animals also make great cuddling buddies.
5. Bubble baths
Only recently did I decide to try doing bubble baths. I got this wonderful Epsom salt and lavender bubble bath and it's so relaxing and fun. You feel like a kid again.
6. Sit outside.
Breathing in fresh air is very calming and peaceful and always helps me to recuperate. Even just a few minutes outside can make a huge difference.
7. Yoga
I don't do yoga very often, but every time I have done it, it made me feel like a new person. You don't even need to be an expert or anything. Just find a beginner yoga video on YouTube. They even have short ones like 10 minutes, and 10 minutes of yoga makes a huge difference making you have more energy and feel relaxed physically and feel peaceful all over. Thai chi and Chi Gong also have similar effects which you can find videos of online.
8. Mindless activity
I often like doing mindless activities or games to help me relax. Coloring is a great example. I also like to play mahjong, solitaire, or other similar games.
9. Music
Like tea, there is music to fit every mood and some music can be very calming. You can make a playlist of relaxation music. I always love cello or classical guitar music. Something instrumental is nice.
These are all just a few examples of how you can take some time to yourself and relax. There is no shame in some selflove. You may even find some of your own relaxation and selflove techniques. Enjoy and love yourself. You deserve it.