Tag Archives: Relaxation

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.

Nap (1)

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.

aromatherapy

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.

Bath (1)

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.

Book (1)

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.

 

Snuggle up and relax with a cup of tea

Looking out the window you know it is just too cold to go anywhere. It’s one of those perfect days to stay in, put on your favorite pair of pajamas, binge-watch a TV show, and simply relax. Add to that some hot tea and you’ve got a perfect snuggle-up day.

Tea is delicious, warms up your insides, comes in so many varieties, and even has health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of our favorites and all the great reasons to try them.

rose hip

Rose Hip.  Produced from the fruit of the rose, not only is Rose Hip tea very tasty, but it’s extremely rich in vitamin C.  it is also said that rosehips can help with anti-aging and they can reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Chamomile

Chamomile. This tea is best known for its ability to calm the mind and help you sleep, but some say that drinking chamomile tea also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and liver-protecting effects. It may also ease symptoms of PMS say some herbalists.

peppermint

Peppermint. One of the most common herbal teas in the world, people use peppermint tea for things like digestive tract health, antioxidant qualities, and antiviral benefits. It’s the go-to remedy in some cultures to relieve indigestion, nausea and stomach pain.

Green tea

Green. Another very popular variety is green tea which is loaded with antioxidants that have many health benefits, including fat burning, lessening the risk of heart disease, improving brain function, and even protection against some cancers. The best part is you can buy green tea in both caffeinated and decaffeinated versions depending on what you prefer.

Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus. With its tart (think cranberries) flavor Hibiscus tea has tons of healthy benefits. It’s chock full of antioxidants, may lower blood pressure, promotes a healthy liver, and fights bacteria. It’s absolutely delicious both hot and cold so you can enjoy it year-round.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass. This tea is known for helping the body rid itself of cholesterol, toxins, fats, and uric acid, which in turn lowers blood pressure. It also contains lots of potassium, is filled with antioxidants, and helps detoxify your body, slowing down the aging process. A rich source of vitamins A and C, lemongrass is fantastic for the health of your skin and hair.

Dandelion Tea

Dandelion. Because it promotes the breakdown of fat and cholesterol dandelion tea can be used for weight loss. It also improves digestion by stimulating the gastric acids in your stomach and is a diuretic, helping to eliminate excess water and bloating from your body so you feel lighter. Dandelion contains essential minerals like calcium, zinc, iron, and magnesium, which we need to maintain strong bones and prevent osteoporosis.

 

There are hundreds of types of teas available, each with its own benefits so be adventurous and try different flavors and combinations. You’ll find that staying in and relaxing in your pajamas is something you’ll want to do a lot more often!

Fall is the perfect time to adopt the Hygge lifestyle

The hottest trend is here to stay! Hygge (Pronounced ‘hoo-ga’ ) is the Danish lifestyle of comfort,  and it’s our favorite obsession.

The rest of the world is taking notice including right here in the U.S., and we, of course, couldn’t be happier. After all, Hygge is right up our alley. What’s more comfortable than pajamas? If you love to snuggle up with a good book and a hot cup of tea on a rainy or snowy day, then believe it or not you’re actually experiencing Hygge and you don’t even know it.

Hygge, however, isn’t just about the right loungewear and perfect soothing beverage. It’s also about transforming your space into the ultimate cozy comfort zone and allowing yourself to fully adopt the entire concept. We’re here to help you learn ‘How to Hygge’.

candles

Candles: If you ask the Danes, they will tell you that candles are a must to create the Hygge environment you need. The flickering lights and the warm glow transform your home into the perfect backdrop for getting your Hygge on. If you have a fireplace, that’s even better!

 Blanket701

Blankets: Full relaxation mode cannot be attained without wrapping yourself in the warmest, most comfortable blanket you have. It transports you to that happy place which is what Hygge is all about. Add some plush pillows for an extra level of bliss.

Lounge Pant400

Comfort Clothes: The cozier the better is the name of the game when it comes to fully immersing yourself into Hygge time. Of course, we are partial to pajamas and loungewear  but almost anything goes as long as you are covered from head to toe in comfort. Leggings, cozy socks, bulky sweaters and yes – even those sweatpants you’ve had for 20 years fit the bill.

Culinary Indulgence: It IS okay to break your healthy eating rules once in a while and savor the good stuff. We recommend freshly baked goods, hot chocolate, hot soup, hearty stew, or anything else that puts you in your happy place. It’s just one day. Live it up.

What is not Hygge

Technology: Looking at your phone, tablet or computer is the biggest no-no in the world of Hygge. The point is to unplug, take in your surroundings, and relax. We MIGHT let TV slide if you promise to watch light, carefree programming. Otherwise, turn it all off, grab a good book and detach from the everyday grind.

Forcing It: 2 kids home with the flu, is probably not the right day to try and submerge yourself into relaxation mode. Save it for a time when all is right with the world and the stars align just right.

Making Rules: The whole concept of Hygge is that there are no rules. We all have special ways we disconnect from the busy lives we lead, so make your time your own. There is no one way to Hygge which is what makes it so great!

So now that you know how to partake, what are you waiting for? There is a reason that Denmark is always in the top 3 ‘happiest countries’ list.

Hygge doesn’t have to be a fall/winter practice either. You can embrace it all year long. Just adjust your activities according to the weather. In the summer, you can pull up a lawn chair or hammock and indulge the same way outdoors in the warm bask of the sun (just don’t forget the sunscreen). Like we said, there are no rules!

Do you have some great tips and advice when it comes to mastering the art of Hygge? We’d love to hear them. Share in the comments or on our Facebook page!

The Art of Napping

Taking a nap…

There are some that do it with awe-inspiring expertise, and then there are those who just aren’t daytime sleepers.This post is dedicated to all you non-nappers out there. We’re going to convert you with some great advice and ease you into becoming a member of the napping population!

Did you know that afternoon naps in many other countries are actually a tradition and observed after the midday meal? This rest period revitalizes and prepares folks to tackle the rest of the day. Many recent studies have also confirmed what so many others already know.  A peaceful 20-minute nap does wonders for productivity, energy, and even attitude.

Why aren’t you recharging your batteries on a regular basis? The excuses are usually always the same. “I’m too busy to nap” or “I can’t sleep in the daytime,” or “my mind won’t stop thinking long enough for me to take a rest.”

Napping is an art –pure and simple. If you follow these tips, you too can see how the other half lives!

pjsal peacelovenaps

Get Comfortable (or as much as you can)

If you are a stay at home parent or work from home, this is not a problem. If however, you are one of the millions of people that have to go to your place of employment every day, this becomes a bit more of a challenge but is not impossible. Most people get an hour for lunch so after your meal, close your office door, find an empty conference room or employee lounge, or even go to your car (seats recline wayyyy back). You may need to try a few different ideas but eventually; you’ll find something that works.

Clear Your Mind

It sounds hard, but do your best to put everything that’s going on in your hectic life aside for a little while. Think of people or things that make you smile. Maybe imagine that you’re lounging on a tropical beach with the waves rippling around you. You’ll find that you are transported to a calm, soothing place that allows you to relax.

Cover Up

There’s something about being wrapped in a cozy blanket that just makes us feel good. Covering up will give you a sense of security and well being. Plus, science has shown that when you feel secure, your metabolism falls, your breathing rate slows, and this allows your body to slip into sleep mode much easier.

Lights Out

Again, not always an option for every scenario but if possible, nap in a dark place. Shutting out light tells your body it’s time to go into standby mode. If you can’t turn the lights out, get yourself a sleep mask which will block the light for you.

Keep it Short

If you sleep too long, you will wake with a feeling of grogginess and disorientation. Long naps can also negatively impact nighttime sleep.  We recommend 20 to 30 minutes at the most. Make sure to set an alarm on your phone so you don’t oversleep.

Make it a Routine

If you nap at the same time every day you will stabilize your circadian rhythms and maximize the benefits. Really, the ideal thing to do is just  make it a part of your daily schedule!

Now that you know all the secrets of becoming a napping professional, give it a try. We think you’ll become addicted in no time. And don’t forget… rainy weekends are perfect times to practice and perfect your napping skills – or, lounge around in your pajamas all day if you prefer!

Self-Care Tips

Don’t Make Plans This Weekend: Hibernate Instead

New year, new you? Before you dive into a 30-day cleanse, start training for a marathon, or sign up for cooking classes — take a weekend to piece the old you back together. The holidays are a wonderful, magical time of year: family, twinkling lights, cozy cups of hot chocolate, more family, friends, parties you’re hosting, parties you’re attending, parties you’re baking for, gifts to wrap, winter break for the kids, even more family… The list of obligations in the month of December escalates quickly. When it’s time to go back to work on January 2nd, you’re already feeling burnt out.

This is why we suggest taking the weekend after the New Year to “hibernate.” Pretend you’re a bear (or family of bears) living in a cave. Get cozy, get comfortable, and put your feet up.

Donuts Flannel Pajama Set by Munki Munki

Donuts Flannel Pajama Set by Munki Munki

Self-Care Guide: How to Hibernate for the Weekend

1. Dress appropriately.

There’s only one hard rule for a hibernation weekend: no pants with zippers. You can wear pajama pants, yoga pants, sweatpants, or any other ultra-comfortable clothes you adore. Pajamas are a great choice, especially for the afternoon naps you might indulge in. Wearing a plush bathrobe, fuzzy socks, and warm slippers will make you feel like you’re at a spa for the weekend.

2. Don’t schedule anything.

You’re not maximizing your time by scheduling out every minute of your hibernation weekend. If you live in a busy household, it might sound like a great idea to set your alarm and wake up early. That way, you could get the bathroom to yourself for a while and soak in the tub — but you also might need the extra sleep. Scheduling your relaxation takes otherwise enjoyable activities and turns them into chores and obligations. Tune in to your body and see how you’re feeling in the moment.

3. Limit your screen time.

In the spirit of hibernation, disconnect email and social media from your phone. We’re all guilty of browsing Facebook, Instagram, and checking work email over the weekend, instead of getting to that book we’ve been meaning to read. Limiting your screen time will also reduce the chatter in your mind that leads to stress and anxiety, allowing you to truly relax.

Dog Tired Women's Nightshirt by Hatley

‘Dog Tired’ Women’s Nightshirt by Hatley

4. Get comfortable.

Pile the blankets and pillows high on the couch or your bed. Light candles and dim the lights. Create a comfortable and relaxing ambiance. Keep everything you need within an arm’s reach: a cup of tea, a snack, magazines, headphones, playlists, books, or the remote so you can stream movies or binge entire seasons of new TV shows. The goal of your weekend hibernation is to exert as little energy as you can so you can feel rested on Monday. Get comfortable.

5. Secure time for yourself.

If you’re sharing your home with your family or roommates, try your best to find some alone time. Let your housemates know that you need a little space for an hour while you read, soak, or take a nap in your bedroom. Even the biggest extroverts need alone time to fully recharge. A little space does a lot of good.

6. Choose the path of least resistance.

When faced with questions like “What should I make for dinner?” or “What activity would the kids like to do this afternoon?” — rephrase the questions like this: “What is the easiest way to make dinner?” or “What is a simple activity that will keep the kids busy this afternoon?” Give yourself permission to choose the easiest route. Sometimes that means takeout or cereal for dinner and other times that means at you put on a movie for the kids and enjoy a couple hours of peace.

7. Drink plenty of water and go to bed early.

The simplest acts of self care are often the most obvious and the most overlooked. Try your very best to drink eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day. Staying hydrated helps with muscle and brain function, keeps your skin clear, eases muscle pain, and helps you sleep better at night. While you’re at it, go to bed as early as you can. Getting at eight hours of sleep reduces your risk for diabetes and heart disease. Sleep also boosts your immune system, manages weight loss, and retains memory. Put on your favorite pajamas and get down to it!

We hope you consider making self-care a habit in 2019! For more ideas for hibernating, self-care, and tips for relaxing, check out The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

matching family pajamas

The Absolute Best Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Idea

If Father’s Day snuck up on you (again), don’t panic! While you might not be able to snag a reservation at a steakhouse this late in the game, you can give dad a gift he’s guaranteed to love: the gift of relaxation. If dad works all day and picks up a second shift as Superdad all night — cooking dinner, helping with homework, wrangling kiddos at bathtime, or scaring away monsters under the bed — he’ll appreciate having the house to himself in his favorite pajama pants on Sunday.

Here’s The Pajama Company’s simple five step guide for planning the best “day off” for dad. No advanced reservations required!

Kasher Super Soft Collared Robe from Pajama Company

Kashwere Super Soft Bathrobe — featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things!

How to Plan the Most Relaxing Father’s Day for Dad

1. Give the gift of comfort!

Let dad know your plans for Father’s Day the night before. Then surprise him with something comfortable to spend the day in. He’ll want to put his feet up, so consider a luxurious bathrobe, pajama pants, fun pajama set, or silly T-shirt — a thoughtful little present he can lounge in all day long.

2. Make a plan for the kids.

Have a late breakfast together, so dad can sleep in. The kids will be eager to give dad their gifts and he’ll get plenty of Father’s Day hugs before you depart for the day. Plan to spend the afternoon out. Take the kids to a playdate, the park, a movie, an arcade, to visit their grandparents… anything to keep them busy for the day so dad can have the house to himself on Father’s Day.

3. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is served.

What’s Father’s Day without steak? Steak and eggs for breakfast sounds super fancy, but it’s a surprisingly quick and easy meal to make. Other easy breakfast ideas: Easy Steak & Egg Bake or this epic “breakfast hoagie” that can be made on a baguette to feed a family! Since you’ll be out for most of day, keep it simple and have all his favorite sandwich fixings ready to go in the fridge: cured meats, cheeses, quality bread, and all the toppings! For dinner, consider firing up the slow cooker or reheating a no-fuss pre-made dish like baked ziti, chili, or a frozen pizza.

Dad T-Shirt for Father's Day

A super T-shirt for Superdad! This fun shirt from LA Imprints makes a great Father’s Day gift. Only 8 left!

4. Everything within arm’s reach.

For an extra-thoughtful touch, set up his favorite spot on the couch so everything is within arm’s reach: his favorite drink, slippers, an assortment of snacks, books, magazines, newspaper, and the remote of course! Be sure to include a comfy pillow and a blanket as well. If you want to be cute, throw in an eye mask for that inevitable afternoon nap! He’ll appreciate that you remembered his faves and went the distance to ensure a day of complete relaxation.

5. Dinner and a movie.

When you return from your day out, simply reheat dinner and settle in with newly “zenned-out” dad. Continue the pampering and let him pick a movie for the family to watch or pick a game for a game night. If you opted not to give him a gift yet, this would be the perfect time to surprise him with matching family pajamas (the family that lounges together…). Whatever you choose to do on Sunday evening, spending a relaxing night with his favorite people beats a crowded steak house every time. For more gift ideas or inspiration for family activities, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Father's Day Gift Ideas from The Pajama Company

12 Simple and Delicious Late Night Snacks

The clock is creeping past ten. You’re unwinding in your pajamas, snuggled into the couch, wrapped up a cozy throw blanket… when your stomach grumbles. You know you “aren’t supposed to” eat after 8pm, but is that really a hard rule? And who made the rule? Why do you have to follow it?

As it turns out, the supposed link between weight gain and late-night eating is a myth. Our metabolism doesn’t slow down at night, converting everything we ate into fat. The same daytime rules apply at nighttime: everything in moderation. That said, we’ve compiled a collection of tasty late night snacks that you don’t have to feel guilty about.

Strawberry Smoothie

Late Night Snacks You Can Feel Good About

1. Strawberry Smoothie. Combine vanilla yogurt, milk or your preferred milk substitute, frozen strawberries and blend. Depending on how sweet the yogurt is, add honey to sweeten the shake. Using Greek yogurt will increase your protein intake — on average 15 to 20 grams per 6 ounces — and make for a more satisfying snack. Low fat yogurt is also an option for reduced calorie intake.

2. Avocado Toast. Simply make a piece of toast and slice up half of a small avocado. Smash the avocado on top of the toast with a fork. Add other toppings like nutritional yeast, green onions, sliced radishes, or baby arugula. Using multigrain or sprouted bread will increase both your fiber and protein intake.

3. Frozen Grapes. This may sound a little strange if you’ve never done it before, but trust us — frozen grapes are delicious. Pull grapes from their stems and place them in a freezer bag. Once they’re frozen you have snackable sorbet. This is a wonderful low-calorie option for those of us who like to reach for a frozen treat at night. Crackers, Turkey, Cheese

4. Whole Wheat Crackers with Cheese and Turkey. Fiber-rich woven wheat crackers are low in calories and very satisfying. Just six Triscuit crackers contain 120 calories, 3 grams of fiber, and 3 grams of protein. Top with thin slices of your favorite cheese and roast turkey. Very satisfying!

5. Quesadilla Half. Heat one 8-inch multigrain tortilla on a skillet and place grated cheese on one half. Layer with other toppings if desired (deli meats, baby spinach, green onions), top half with second layer of cheese and fold the quesadilla in half. Once one side is toasted, flip and toast the other side until the cheese is melted through. Serve with salsa and enjoy!

6. Greek Yogurt and Low-Fat Granola. As we mentioned earlier, Greek yogurt is packed with protein so a small serving will ward off hunger for a long time. Combine the yogurt with the fiber punch of granola, top with honey, and you have a sweet, creamy, and crunchy snack.

7. Ham and Provolone Roll-Ups. Cut out the carbs with these quick and easy ham and provolone roll-ups. Spread a thin layer of mustard on a slice of provolone, top with a slice of ham, and roll it up! Packed with protein and flavor, this filling snack will put an end to your hunger pangs.

Dark Chocolate is a Healthy Snack

8. Dark Chocolate. If you’re craving chocolate, the darker the better. Milk chocolate contains less of the original cocoa bean than dark chocolate and contains more milk, sugar, and cream. Savoring a little bit of quality dark chocolate will satisfy your craving and will be a relatively healthy treat.

9. Banana and Peanut Butter. Snacks don’t get much easier than this! Simply spread a little bit on peanut butter on a banana as you peel it. While peanut butter is high in protein, it’s also high-calorie and high in saturated fat, so spread accordingly.

10. DIY Popcorn. Air pop your own popcorn at home or pop with oil. Either way, it will be far better for you than the sodium and chemical-loaded stuff that comes out of the microwave. The benefit of popping it yourself is that you’re in control of the toppings — what they are and how much. Add a little parmesan cheese, garlic salt, or zesty lime seasoning. Have fun with it!

Black Bean Salad and Tortilla Chips

11. Black Bean Salad and Tortilla Chips. Keeping a batch of black bean salad in the fridge is a great way to spice up salads, rice, and other side dishes throughout the week. It’s also wonderful as a flavorful and hearty snack on a handful of tortilla chips.

12. Pita with Veggies and Hummus. Cut a small whole wheat pita in half, open up the pocket and spread the inside with hummus. Place mixed greens and sliced veggies inside for a fresh and tasty treat!

For more ideas for how to unwind in your pajamas this winter, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

 

Fall Fun Ideas in Flannel Pajamas

Fall is More Fun in Flannel! Some Things Are Just Better in PJs

Summer has officially come to a close. It won’t be long before pajama season is in full swing. Crisp fall air, brisk mornings, chilly nights, crunchy leaves, and cozy blankets slowly steer us indoors before winter. Fall is a season that is based largely on the sense of smell and soft, warm textures. Just the thought of freshly baked goodies, ‘pumpkin spice’ scented everything, wool sweaters, cashmere scarves, and pillowy down comforters are enough to make you want to crawl back in bed for a long nap.

With our internal clock set to hibernate, it’s no wonder we don’t want to get out of our pajamas until April. Here is a list of our favorite fall activities that are far better when enjoyed in the comfort of our favorite flannel jammies.

Ideas for Fall Family Fun

PJ Salvage Women’s Coffee Time Flannel Pajama Set in Dove

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9 Reasons to Call in a Pajama Day

reasons pajama day

Ahhhh…pajama days. Every now and again we all need them, right? One day where we don’t have to bother getting dressed – we can lounge around and relax all day long in our coziest jammies.

Just in case to you need a little help finding a reason to take a day all to yourself – here are 9 of our very best excuses:

1.You just put fresh sheets on your bed and there’s no way you’re letting the coziness go to waste!

2. It’s raining, snowing, sleeting, too hot out, too windy…(insert weather condition here).

3. You’re on the home stretch of THE best book you’ve ever read. Hello?!?!

4. You just finished hustling for a HUGE work or school project and your mind and body need to chill.

5. An awesome new series just dropped on Netflix and you’re hooked…“just. one. more. episode.”

6. You’re pretty sure that mastering the art of napping is your life’s calling and you must do more field research.

7. You’ve been feeling a little down lately and a feel good movie marathon is just what the doctor ordered.

8. Home-made mac ‘n cheese leftovers in the fridge…need we say more?

9. The UPS man just delivered your new footie pajamas and you plan to put them to use (along with #5 and #8) immediately.

Now go ahead and call in lazy! You deserve it.