Trying Something New For Your Down Time

We all have our routines and preferences when it comes to our downtime – you might binge watch something, read a book, take a nap or a walk. But sometimes those old routines can become so much of a habit that it doesn't feel like you're winding down, but just that you're going through the motions. So it's time to shake things up and try something new. Each person relaxes doing something different, and you don't have to try something that is the polar opposite to your normal routine – just a small change can make all the difference.

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[ctt template=”4″ link=”_Fc9S” via=”yes” ]Sometimes those old routines can become so much of a habit that it doesn't feel like you're winding down, but just that you're going through the motions. So it's time to shake things up and try something new for your down time. Just a small change can make all the difference.[/ctt]

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TV

You know that list on Netflix that seems to grow rather than shrink, why not sift through it and choose something new? We often find that we accumulate lists of new things but always default to re-binge watching Friends for hours on end. Pick something you wouldn't normally watch but sounds interesting, like Fooly Cooly an anime series, Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency on Netflix or Vikings on Amazon Prime. There is nothing wrong with watching TV as your down time, but use it to explore something new.

Books

The same can be said when it comes to reading – switching to something new can be refreshing. You can switch up genres, revisit old favourites, or read something that can help you to relax and gain a healthier mindset on life. Mindfulness books are plenty and can be a great way of relaxing and creating a happier mind. Try Self-care for the real world if you wish to take this route.

Exercise

If physical activity is your normal route for relaxing, then why not try a new class? Something high paced like spin or boxercise can be great to relieve stress and get those endorphins flowing. I'd you prefer something slower and calming then try walking. It will help you to let go of stress and negativity while working you enough to get those endorphins going.

Relaxing Bath

If you find it hard to unwind or relax, then a relaxing bath might be perfect for you. Add some calming and relaxing scents. Options range from cherry blossom and mandarin to vanilla and lavender. You can relax in the tub after a self-spa session. Put on some acoustic or classical music, recline in the tub and just let your thoughts drift. The idea is that you allow your mind and body to slow down, and wash away any stress or problems.

Food

Is you find comfort in baking, cooking, or even just eating, then try something new! Pick a recipe you have yet to try or one that takes more time than you would normally spend. It might fail, or it might be amazing, either way, you will be immersed in the process and won’t have time to think about anything else.

Outings

Why not take a day or an afternoon to go somewhere you have always wanted to go? You can take the time to go to a museum, to the cinema to see something new, to a coffee shop or local library you keep meaning to pop into. It doesn’t have to be a huge event or cost much money, just get yourself out of the house and allow yourself not to be rushed through what you’re doing.

This is a contributed post.

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