Category Archives: Self Care

The Science of Sleep: How the Longest Day Affects Your Slumber

As the calendar flips to June 21st, we welcome the summer solstice—officially the longest day of the year. It’s a day when the sun seems to stretch its legs and refuse to set, giving us more daylight than any other day. But have you ever wondered how this extra sunlight impacts your sleep? Let’s dive into the science of sleep and discover how the longest day can affect our nightly slumber.

Sunlight and Circadian Rhythms: Our bodies are governed by a natural clock known as the circadian rhythm. This internal timer is influenced by environmental cues, especially light. Sunlight tells our brain to wake up and get moving, while darkness signals it’s time to wind down and rest. On the longest day, the extended exposure to light can disrupt this rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep or leading to less restful sleep.

Melatonin and the Longest Day: Melatonin, often referred to as the ‘sleep hormone,’ plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle. Its production increases as the evening progresses, peaking at night to help us feel sleepy. However, the prolonged daylight during the summer solstice can delay the release of melatonin, pushing back our bedtime and potentially shortening our sleep duration.

Quality Over Quantity: It’s not just about how long you sleep, but also how well you sleep. The quality of your slumber is paramount. Even if the longest day means fewer hours under the covers, ensuring that the sleep you do get is deep and restorative is key. This is where a comfy pair of pajamas comes in. Slipping into something soft and breathable can create the perfect sleep environment, signaling to your body that it’s time to relax, regardless of the sun still lingering on the horizon.

Pajamas: Your Sleep Ally: On this longest day, let your pajamas be your ally in the quest for good sleep. Choose light, airy fabrics that feel like a second skin and designs that make you smile. Whether it’s a classic stripe or a playful print, the right pajamas can make all the difference. They’re not just about aesthetics; they’re a functional piece in your sleep toolkit.

Creating a Sleep Sanctuary: Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, especially on the summer solstice. Invest in blackout curtains to mimic the dark, invest in quality bedding, and yes, choose pajamas that make you feel relaxed and happy. It’s all about creating an environment that encourages sleep, no matter how much sunlight is still peeking through.

The Longest Day as a Sleep Experiment: Why not use the longest day as an opportunity to experiment with your sleep habits? Try going to bed at your usual time and see how the extra daylight affects you. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, adjust your schedule to take advantage of the early sunrise for a morning walk or meditation. Just remember to slip into your pajamas afterward for a daytime nap to balance out the early rise.

The summer solstice is a natural phenomenon that can disrupt our sleep, but it’s also a chance to celebrate the season and enjoy the extra daylight. And with the right pajamas, we can embrace the longest day in comfort and style. So, as the sun sets on the horizon, let’s raise a glass (of chamomile tea) to good sleep and great pajamas. Happy solstice!

Laugh Your Stress Away: Embracing the Healing Power of a Good Chuckle

April is Stress Awareness Month, and what better way to combat stress than with a good old-fashioned belly laugh? Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of comedy and exploring how laughter can be a game-changer for our mental and emotional well-being.

Picture this: you’re lounging in your comfiest pajamas, scrolling through your favorite funny memes, and suddenly, you burst into laughter. In that moment, something magical happens. Your worries melt away, your mood lifts, and you’re filled with an undeniable sense of joy and lightness. That’s the power of laughter in action.

So, how exactly does laughter work its stress-busting magic? Well, it’s all about those feel-good chemicals called endorphins. When we laugh, our bodies release these natural mood-boosters, sending waves of relaxation and happiness throughout our entire being. It’s like a mini spa day for your mind and body, all wrapped up in a hearty chuckle.

But the benefits of laughter go beyond just feeling good in the moment. Studies have shown that laughter can have long-lasting effects on our health and well-being. It boosts our immune system, lowers blood pressure, and even helps to reduce pain. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others and strengthen relationships—after all, who doesn’t love sharing a good laugh with friends?

So, how can you incorporate more laughter into your daily routine? Well, the possibilities are endless! You could start by tuning in to your favorite comedy podcast while getting ready in the morning, or hosting a virtual movie night with friends and streaming a hilarious comedy classic. And of course, there’s always the tried-and-true method of indulging in a good old-fashioned comedy show while rocking your coziest pajamas.

Speaking of pajamas, did you know that laughter is even more therapeutic when you’re wearing your favorite pair? There’s just something about being wrapped in soft, snuggly fabric that makes every joke a little bit funnier. So go ahead, slip into your most comfortable sleepwear, and let the laughter flow.

As we navigate the ups and downs of life, let’s remember the importance of finding moments of joy and levity, especially during Stress Awareness Month. Whether it’s sharing a funny story with a friend, watching a comedy special, or simply allowing ourselves to laugh freely and unabashedly, let’s embrace the healing power of laughter and let it guide us through even the toughest times.

So here’s to more laughter, more joy, and more pajama-clad moments of pure bliss. Let’s laugh our stress away and make every day a little brighter. After all, life is better when you’re laughing!

Unleash Your Inner Goofball: Fun Ways to Celebrate National Goof Off Day

National Goof Off Day on March 22nd is the perfect excuse to let loose, have fun, and embrace your inner goofball. And what better way to celebrate than in your cozy pajamas? Whether you’re flying solo or gathering your squad, here are some out-of-the-box ideas to make the most of this playful occasion.

Park Picnic Party: Pack a basket full of your favorite snacks, grab a blanket, and head to the nearest park for a picnic party in your pajamas! Set up camp under a shady tree, spread out your feast, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon of food, laughter, and games. Bring along a frisbee, soccer ball, or even a kite for some outdoor fun, and don’t forget to snap some silly photos to commemorate the occasion.

Lights, Pajamas, Action: Step out in style without changing out of your pajamas! Try a pajama-themed movie night at the theater. Slip into your comfiest PJs, gather your friends and family, and head to the cinema for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the latest blockbusters or award winning hits in the coziest attire possible. Don’t miss out on the fun – grab your tickets and embrace the comfort of movie night in your PJs!

Pajama Pub Crawl: Get ready to paint the town red in your comfiest pajamas with a pajama pub crawl! Gather your friends and hit up your favorite local bars and breweries for a night of drinks, dancing, and debauchery—all while sporting your silliest sleepwear. From cozy neighborhood pubs to trendy cocktail lounges, explore different venues and embrace the quirky spirit of National Goof Off Day with each new stop. Just remember to drink responsibly and designate a sober driver if needed!

DIY Spa Night Soiree: Treat yourself to a pampering spa night in the comfort of your own home with a DIY pajama party spa soiree! Transform your living room into a zen oasis with scented candles, soothing music, and plush robes. Set up stations for facials, manicures, pedicures, and massages, and indulge in some much-needed self-care with your closest pals. Whip up homemade face masks, soak your feet in luxurious foot baths, and sip on refreshing cucumber water as you relax and unwind together.

Midnight Munchie Madness: Channel your inner night owl and embark on a midnight munchie adventure in your pajamas! Grab your crew and hit up your favorite 24-hour diner, convenience store, or late-night food truck for some indulgent treats to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re craving greasy burgers, cheesy pizza, or sweet treats like donuts or ice cream, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from. Just remember to bring along your pajama-clad posse and your appetite for fun!

National Goof Off Day is all about embracing your playful side and enjoying life’s simple pleasures, so don’t be afraid to get a little silly and have some fun. Whether you’re lounging at home or out on the town, make sure to rock your favorite pajamas with pride and celebrate in style. After all, life’s too short to take yourself too seriously—so kick back, relax, and let the goofiness begin!

Embracing Winter Wellness: Nurturing Your Immune System Naturally

Winter invites us to slow down, savor cozy moments, and prioritize our well-being. Amidst the chill and festive celebrations, it’s crucial to pay special attention to our immune system, ensuring it remains robust to ward off seasonal challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore a holistic approach to winter wellness, incorporating self-care, relaxation, and the importance of quality sleep—wrapped in the comforting embrace of your favorite pajamas.

1. Harness the Power of Hydration: As the temperature drops, it’s easy to overlook hydration. Yet, staying well-hydrated is a simple yet effective way to bolster your immune system. Opt for soothing herbal teas, warm lemon water, or nourishing broths to keep yourself hydrated and cozy during the winter months.

2. Immunity-Boosting Nutrition: Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods that support immune health. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet. Explore the vibrant array of winter produce, such as citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens. These not only provide essential vitamins and antioxidants but also add a burst of flavor to your seasonal meals.

3. Embrace the Winter Outdoors: While it’s tempting to stay bundled up indoors, getting some fresh air is invigorating for both the body and mind. Engage in winter-friendly outdoor activities like brisk walks, snowshoeing, or even a friendly snowball fight. The crisp air and natural light contribute to overall well-being and can enhance your mood.

4. Cozy Self-Care Rituals: Create a winter self-care routine to nourish your body and soul. Indulge in a warm bath with aromatic bath salts, pamper your skin with hydrating lotions, and savor the comfort of plush blankets. These rituals not only enhance relaxation but also contribute to stress reduction, a key component in maintaining a strong immune system.

5. Quality Sleep in Pajama Comfort: Adequate and restful sleep is a cornerstone of winter wellness. Prioritize a consistent sleep schedule and create a calming bedtime routine. Slip into your favorite pajamas, crafted for comfort and warmth, signaling to your body that it’s time to unwind. Quality sleep supports immune function, making it a crucial element of your winter well-being strategy.

6. Mindful Meditation: Integrate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to manage stress and promote mental clarity. Whether through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga, these practices contribute to a sense of calm and balance, positively influencing your immune system.

7. Connect Virtually: Stay socially connected, even if it means virtual gatherings. Social interactions contribute to emotional well-being, and maintaining these connections during the winter months can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Schedule online game nights, virtual movie marathons, or simply catch up with loved ones over a glass of wine or cup of hot cocoa.

8. Seasonal Aromatherapy: Explore the aromatic wonders of essential oils to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Scents like cinnamon, eucalyptus, and lavender not only add a delightful fragrance to your space but also boast potential immune-boosting properties. Consider diffusing these oils or incorporating them into your self-care routines.

Winter wellness is a harmonious blend of nurturing your body, mind, and spirit. By adopting these holistic practices, you can create a foundation for a resilient immune system and embrace the season with vitality and joy. So, snuggle up in your coziest pajamas, savor the winter moments, and let the warmth of well-being envelop you throughout the season.

Mindful Moments: Finding Peace in the Chaos of the Holiday Season

In the whirlwind of holiday festivities, take a moment to step into tranquility. Explore mindfulness practices that promise serenity amidst the seasonal chaos, grounding yourself in the present moment. As the holiday season unfolds, discover the power of simple yet impactful techniques to infuse your home with a profound sense of calm.

And as you embark on this mindful journey, consider donning your coziest pajamas. Let the soft embrace of comfort be your initial guide in navigating the season with ease. Whether it’s the warmth of familiar fabrics or the soothing feel against your skin, your favorite pajamas will be the perfect companion in this pursuit of holiday serenity.

Breathe in, Breathe Out: Amidst the hustle and bustle, take a moment to reconnect with your breath. Inhale deeply, allowing the air to fill your lungs, and exhale slowly, releasing any tension. Repeat this mindful breathing exercise to center yourself and invite a sense of peace.

Create a Tranquil Space: Designate a serene corner in your home where you can retreat when the holiday frenzy becomes overwhelming. Filled with calming elements—soft cushions, flickering candles, or a touch of nature—this oasis will serve as a reminder to pause, breathe, and find solace. Wrapped in the gentle comfort of your cherished pajamas, let this space become your sanctuary for tranquility.

Mindful Appreciation: Amidst the chaos, consciously appreciate the beauty around you. Whether it’s the twinkling holiday lights, the warmth of a cozy blanket, or the laughter of loved ones, take a moment to savor these simple pleasures. Mindful appreciation enhances gratitude, fostering a positive and peaceful mindset.

Digital Detox Moments: In a world buzzing with notifications, grant yourself moments of digital detox. Silence your devices, disconnect from the virtual noise, and relish the simplicity of real-time connections. Engage in meaningful conversations, create memories, and be present with those around you.

Rituals of Relaxation: Establish rituals that promote relaxation and mindfulness. Whether it’s sipping a cup of herbal tea, indulging in a few pages of a favorite book, or practicing gentle stretches, these rituals create pockets of calm within the holiday storm. As you embrace these rituals, let the soft textures of your chosen pajamas enhance the overall sense of relaxation and comfort, allowing you to unwind in style.

Gratitude Journaling: End your day by jotting down a few things you are grateful for. Reflecting on positive moments fosters a mindset of gratitude, redirecting your focus from the chaos to the blessings that surround you.

As you navigate the bustling holiday schedule, let mindfulness be your guide to tranquility. These simple practices invite peace into your mind and home, creating a harmonious atmosphere amidst the festive chaos. Embrace the beauty of mindful moments, savor the present, and find peace in every breath.

Mastering the art of slowing down

If you feel your life is going too fast, mastering the art of slowing down is essential for achieving success. It’s an actual skill to step back and choose what is most important to you. If we can make the most of our days without rushing through things, we can be more productive.

Learning how to slow down your pace can start in the small moments of everyday life. For example, the way you start your day sets the tone for the rest of your day. By taking the time to intentionally begin your day, you will feel less stressed and rushed throughout your day. If you’re ready to ride in the slow lane for a bit, give these tried and true tips a go.

Deep Breath

Deep Breathing. The art of deep breathing can help you relax and reduce your stress levels. It activates the vagus nerve which is involved in the regulation of our physiological responses and acts as a neural brake. During a deep breath, the heart rate slows down and the breathing pattern becomes slow and deep. This process can decrease your feelings of anxiety and depression.

Meditate. Slowing down through meditation involves tapping into the breath and by doing so we calm the mind, reduce reactivity, and power the frontal lobes of the brain. We can use this technique to slow down time so that we can choose the right things to do at the right time.

Yoga

Yoga. This practice requires you to pay attention to the present moment and refine your awareness and perception. We tend to be so wrapped up in our daily activities that we often become oblivious to the quiet part within us. Our mind demands outward stimulation so it is very important to take time to dive into your inner world.

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Engage Nature. Take time away from business and reconnect with nature. This can be and variety of activities, including taking a walk, reading a book outdoors, or simply sitting and listening to nature’s soothing sounds. If possible, leave technology indoors.

Focus on the moment. It’s not all about slowing yourself down, it’s about practicing mindfulness. Being mindful means directing your attention toward the present moment and taking inventory of your surroundings and the people around you. In other words, when slowing down your life, you want to make the most of every moment rather than simply pass through it.

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Make a short to-do list. One of the best ways to slow down your life is to make a short to-do list. Whether it’s a daily task or a weekly project, writing it down helps trick your brain into thinking in specific steps. Having a short to-do list will help you prioritize tasks so put only three items on your list each day. This way, you’ll be able to check off the most important tasks and leave the rest for the next day or week.

Gratitude

Cultivating gratitude. This is a powerful way to boost your mood, foster stronger relationships, and even change the way you see yourself. Plus, practicing gratitude is totally free! When you practice gratitude, you’ll experience an increased sense of relaxation, a stronger immune system, and a reduction in blood pressure. Write down the things you’re grateful for or write a handwritten letter to someone special and focus on the good qualities of that person.

Declutter

Get rid of clutter. Clutter clogs our brain’s neural pathways, which means that we can’t process information quickly and can negatively impact our relationships, health, and work performance. We also spend an inordinate amount of time searching for things. This is time we could be spending with loved ones or relaxing. When tackling a clutter problem, it’s important to start small. Start by putting your dirty laundry in a hamper, and then clear off the tops of appliances and shelves and move up from there.

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Create a cocoon. Fall is the best time to start learning the art of cocooning. You can start by setting aside a specific space in your bedroom. Then, set a schedule for cocooning and begin to follow it. Make sure you have plenty of comfortable pajamas on hand for your sessions.

The cooler weather and shorter days are the perfect time to think about slowing down your life. Tell us how you step back when things get hectic in the comments below or post on our Facebook page!

 

How to Celebrate National Relaxation Day

National Relaxation Day is August 15th. If you’ve ever wanted to take a day to unplug from technology and social media, you’ve come to the right place for ideas on how to do just that. Take a relaxing bath, relax with a good book, or get a massage. Whatever your reason for celebrating, relaxation can be beneficial for your mind and body.

Stress is one of the most common distractions we have, and taking some time to relax is essential for overall wellness. Taking breaks, watching TV, and light gardening are just a few of the ways to relax every day and unwind but if you’re looking for the best ways to spend a whole day relaxing, you should start planning now.  Listed below are 8 ideas to get you started.

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Take a mental health day. You can’t spend the day relaxing if you have to work. If possible, take a mental health day to reflect and do Inner Work. This day can be spent doing something you enjoy or trying something new, spending time with friends, or engaging in some challenging activity. While the latter might seem like a luxury, it will give you a relaxing feeling of accomplishment.

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Start the morning slow. Enjoy the time you get to spend in your pajamas. Sleep late, have a special breakfast, and work into your day. If you have others in the home that may interrupt your morning Zen, tell them in advance this is your day. Or better yet, get the whole gang involved. A whole morning in PJs for everyone!

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Visit a spa. There are so many benefits to visiting a spa. Aside from feeling good, spa treatments can help improve your skin’s health and organ function. Some spas even offer services to remove unwanted hair. If you’re looking for a day to relax, visiting a spa might be the perfect way to unwind. And you can easily schedule well in advance for your treatment.

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Take a scenic walk. Mother Nature can provide some of the most amazing backdrops for your relaxation day. Walk in a natural environment as opposed to an urban street. The mental boost you get from hiking trails, a sandy beach, or a forest can do wonders for your well-being.

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Meditate. Practicing meditation requires you to focus your mind and notice the world around you. If you’re new to meditation, National Relaxation Day is the perfect time to make it part of your daily routine. Try to meditate for a short period of time to begin with and work your way up to longer and more frequent sessions.

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Exercise. There are numerous benefits of exercise as a way to relax. Exercise promotes stress reduction and strengthens the immune system, cardiovascular system, and digestive system by providing a physical activity that makes them work in tandem. Exercise is also proven to improve mood by producing endorphins that make you happy – so get moving and start relaxing!

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Write something. In today’s stressful world, it’s important to find a way to escape and relax. Writing is a great hobby and creative outlet. Not only does it relax and inspire you, but it can also improve your logical thinking, narrative skills, and creative thinking. Write about anything you want and remember you’re not a novelist; this is a personal outlet for you!

Sun

Get some sun. Getting outside in the sunshine has several benefits, including improving mood. It prevents overproduction of the hormone melatonin, which is produced by the body when it is dark. Additionally, exposure to sunlight improves brain function which allows you to be more clear thinking and in turn organize your thoughts which will help you relax. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

There are a million things you can do to relax and after all, this is a national holiday so do what makes you relax! Don’t forget to spread the word about National Relaxation Day and celebrate your self-care!

Remember to Relax – 7 tried and true ways to clear your mind

As things begin to return to what we know as normal life, the hustle and bustle of our everyday routines have worked their way back into our schedules. Coming off almost 2 years of ‘not as busy as usual’ may seem a little different right now but it won’t be long until busy-busy is just old hat again.

 

As your life returns to its pre-pandemic ways, you will need to remember that you still need “you” time to relax. You don’t want to forget this important part of maintaining a healthy mind, body, and soul. Here are 7 simple ideas that don’t cost anything that you can incorporate into everyday life to make sure you get in that critical relaxation time you need.

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Nap. Sleep is an essential part of rebooting your entire system. A short nap in your favorite pajamas can do wonders for your state of mind and is second-to-none when it comes to the ultimate relaxation technique.

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Use aromatherapy. Lavender, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Ylang-Ylang, and lemongrass are all very popular aromatherapy scents used to enhance your relaxation techniques. These scents activate certain sensory triggers that put you at ease and make your mind relax.

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Take a bath. There is nothing better than a good soak in the tub to wash away the day’s commotion. Add relaxing essential oils to your bath water and turn on some soft music to really enhance your soak. Even 30 minutes of you-time in the soothing water can make all the difference in the world.

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Read a book. Want to get away from it all for a little while? Put your nose in a good book and put your mind somewhere else.

Meditate

Meditate. You may already incorporate meditation into your daily routine, and if so you know how well it works. If meditation is new to you, we recommend doing some research online and picking the technique that best fits your needs. It’s an incredible way to relax and it amazing way to calm your mind.

Pet

Spend time with a pet. Studies show that spending time with a pet is one of the most relaxing things you can do. It’s also a win-win because you are getting quality relaxation time and your pet is getting some extra love from their favorite human!

Tea

Have a hot beverage. Even 15 minutes alone with a cup of warm herbal tea is better than nothing at all. If you want to try something a little different, add some raw honey to hot water with a slice of lemon and drink it just like that. This concoction is relaxing, has amazing immunity benefits, and taste delicious

You may have your own way of relaxing but we encourage you to mix it up a bit and try different things. When you look forward to something, you’re more likely to actually do it.

 

Why We Need Quiet Time

Our lives and our world are full of noise and distractions. Sometimes so much so that we lose focus on what we need to get done. We also forget to take the time for some peace and quiet which is an important part of our overall well-being.

Many people view taking time for solitude and serenity as a luxury they simply cannot afford because let’s face it; if we aren’t doing anything then we’re getting nothing done. This mindset stops us from taking the time we need to grow, renew, and revive.

Look at it from a different perspective, when you take in the silence you allow yourself to engage in time for self-reflection and awareness. Everyone needs quiet time, but what does it entail and how will you benefit? We have some thoughts on that.

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  1. Renewal requires rest

It’s simply impossible to just go, go, go without resting. Everything requires repair and maintenance including the human body. The easy part is relaxing the body; it’s relaxing the mind that’s the hard part. Meditation is a great way to check-out for a bit, mute the noise in your head, and gain the peace you need.

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  1. Rediscover what’s important

When caught up in the whirlwind that is our daily routine, we forget or even ignore what really matters. When you have too many responsibilities or waste time on unnecessary tasks, you lose sight of the important things. You need quiet time to rediscover what you’ve neglected and to revisit priorities.

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  1. Make order from chaos.

When you’re knee-deep in a commotion of activity there is no time for prioritizing tasks. You’re too busy crossing things off the list. The best time to examine the reasons behind what you do in life is best found during quiet moments to yourself.

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  1. Quiet time reinforces your meaning

The human mind needs time to put things into perspective. This can’t be done when you are doing 20 things at once or always chasing deadlines. You need peaceful silence to do that. Only then are you able to rejuvenate and reboot.

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  1. Quiet time is a stress eliminator

You might not be able to completely escape stress, but you can certainly practice ways to mitigate it. One quick and simple way to reduce stress is to  regularly carve out 15-30 minutes of your day to sit quietly alone, meditate, read a book or listen to music, go for a peaceful walk, or put on your pajamas and take a quick nap. If you have even more time (such as a long lunch break) use it. But it’s not all about how long you’re quiet; it’s about making time for it in your life no matter the length of time. It’s the easiest way to nourish your mind and body so you can return to your routine with more energy and focus.

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  1. Heal and stay healthy with quiet time

Medical professionals use dark, quiet rooms for patient recovery from surgery and illness for good reason. Any form of healing, both medical and physical require complete rest and relaxation so that your body and mind to recuperate. Similarly, when you learn to wind down improve your chances of staving off future health problems and disease. A body under less stress has a higher immunity level.

Quite time may seem like an unreasonable goal but believe us, it’s totally attainable. Plan it, do it, and make no excuses for taking the time you need.

Make it all about you!

Life is crazy and day-to-day responsibilities can sometimes make it impossible for you to remember to kick back, relax, and think about yourself. With juggling family, work, a household, and all the other things that go along with adulating, there just aren’t enough hours in the day it seems. How often do you take a step back and take a day that’s all about you? That’s right… we mean forget about your responsibilities, forget about your to-do list, and just do what you want.

Pick a day, and declare it ‘All about Me Day’. What will you do with yourself? That’s the best part – it’s all up to you. We can give you some ideas to get the ball rolling, but in the end, this is your day to relax, regroup, reset, and of course – have fun!

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Don’t get dressed and don’t do anything. Stay in your pajamas all day long. Since today is all about you, no one’s going to see what you’re wearing, and you shouldn’t care if your hair is a little messy or you’re not dressed to the nine’s.  Pajamas are comfy, relaxing, and they are the best outfit to wear when doing absolutely nothing.

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Make or order your favorite meal. Lots of us have a favorite meal we enjoy but don’t eat very often have because other family members don’t like it or it just doesn’t fit with the usual routine. Since this is your day, indulge. Make, or better yet, order yourself that special meal. Don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of wine to make it extra perfect.

Binge

Binge-watch your favorite show. Running a household may mean that you don’t have time to sit down and catch up on missed episodes of your favorite TV program. Or, there may be a new show you really want to watch but just haven’t been able to fit it in. It’s your day so do things your way. Watch what you want, when you want with no interruptions.

bath

Relax in the tub. Draw the water, throw in a bath bomb, light some candles, and climb on in. Grab your favorite book, or turn on your favorite music and simply enjoy your alone time. Don’t forget to lock the door to avoid any unwanted interruptions.

Shopping

Shop till you drop. Visit your favorite stores and shops and buy yourself something new that you WANT- not that you need. Our favorite words for shopping day are “impulse buy.”

Spa

Go to the spa. If it’s going to be impossible for you to have your special day uninterrupted or done on your terms, consider going to a spa. Get a mani, pedi, facial, massage, and anything else that will make you feel pampered and special.

Friends

Visit with friends. Maybe the day-to-day grind makes it impossible for you to get together with your besties as often as you like. Get the gang together and do a group ‘me day’. We’re sure you can find a few people in the same boat as you who would love to be a part of this new self-proclaimed holiday.

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Throw away the rule book. Not eating carbs? Eat bread, pasta, and anything else that is normally a no-no. Go to the gym every day? Skip it, one day will not matter. Is the house a mess? Let it wait, the mess will still be there tomorrow. Do you cook three squares for the family every day? Leave a cookbook and the takeout menu on the counter and let them fend for themselves. The bottom line is that it’s all about you for 24 hours.

Everyone should take the time to love and pamper themselves. It’s how we get through the rigors of life. If you’ve forgotten to take a teeny bit of time to do the things that make you happy, this is your reminder. And make it something you do from time to time. Your mental well-being will thank you.