Happy National Relaxation Day!

re·lax·a·tion

/rēˌlakˈseiSH(ə)n/

1. the state of being free from tension and anxiety.

2. the action of making a rule or restriction less strict. "relaxation of censorship rules"

Lately it seems that most of what I do can be filed under the technical definition of relaxation. My ever turning world of hospitality and school have slowed almost to a complete halt. In turn this has allowed me to pursue my worlds of health / fitness and enjoying life. At this point I am so incredibly grateful for this time, even though it has brought about anxieties that I haven't had it has forced me to slow down, stop and think about how I want to spend my future.

In honor of National Relaxation Day I have put together a list of my top ten favorite ways to kick back and take a breather.

1. Read a good book

My Favorites of the Summer:

- Girl Stop Apologizing, by Rachel Hollis

- Royal Holiday, by Jasmine Guillory

- Find Your Path, by Carrie Underwood

- I'm Still Here, by Austin Channing Brown

2. Go for a long walk outside

There are so many mental and physical benefits for going for walks outside. Personally, I feel so much better after some fresh air and sunshine.

3. Watch some feel good TV

My Favorites:

- Gilmore Girls (Netflix)

- New Girl (Netflix)

- Jane the Virgin (Netflix)

- Young & Hungry (Netflix)

- Melissa & Joey (Hulu)

All of these shows are done with their series, so they are also perfect to binge watch!

4. Bubble Bath

There is an inexplicable feeling of being able to soak in the tub with some candles lit and a great book. I can not recommend this enough!

5. Beach Trip

Toes in the sand, cool bottle of water, sun hat, sunscreen, and the waves crashing on the jetty, is a combination that so few things can beat.

6. Glass of wine at home or out at the winery.

This a complete personal preference, if you are alcohol free you're favorite soda, tea, or whatever suits your fancy.

7. Workout

Going all out on my workout and a nice long shower after with a bomb playlist.

8. Meditation

This is something that I am very new to. However, I am becoming fond of it, it allows for self reflection. I am not very good at staying focused on one thing for an extended period time so it is an adjustment. The Shine app is what I am using currently.

9. Cleaning

Again, this is a personal preference. For you cleaning out a closet could be very taxing and not relaxing at ALL. But for me, I am someone who thrives off of accomplishing things on my to-do list.

10. Crafting

My Favorites:

- Canvas Painting

- Center Piece Arranging

- Scrapbooking

- Coloring (in a book or an app, I use Chamy)

- Sewing

What are your favorite ways to relax after a long week?