Fall is most commonly known as the season of change. The leaves fall off of the trees and the trees go into winter rest. To most people, though, fall means quite the opposite. It means conforming to the hustle and buckling down to get as much done before the holidays roll around. Though it’s a time for hustle and bustle, it can (yes, I said CAN) actually be enjoyable if you take the necessary steps to relax and set aside some time to rest your mind. Here are some tips we love to wind down and decompress.
SIT DOWN, BE MINDFUL
Power down: the dreaded words of pretty much anyone living in the year 2017. Find a few hours out of your week (even if it’s just the weekend) and to lock up the laptop and cell phone and just sit down and relax. Some good old fashioned quiet time will do wonders for your sanity. Check out the apps “Headspace” and “Simple Habit” for iOS and Android devices. Though you’re technically not COMPLETELY powering down, it doesn’t require you to do anything but listen and relax.
GET GROOVIN’
If you choose against powering down, I hope it’s because you’ve decided to rock out to some tunes. Find some feel good music and make a playlist to use as the soundtrack to your day. Music can be used as an instant mood booster or even just sweet sounds to help you get into a groove. If you’re feeling really wild, set aside some time to have a quick dance party to get your blood flowing. Spotify pretty much has a playlist for everything, check out “Confidence Boost” if you’re seeking some motivation or “Autumn Acoustic” to embrace the fall and wind down.
GET MOVIN’
Most people decide against it because the changing of the season. But, can actually be really beautiful. It’s one of the few times you can see and feel a season change at the same time. This is the perfect excuse to get active and try an outdoor exercise *extreme enthusiasm*! You know you want to! Though things like taking in sights and even listening to the sounds of the city while you are on a walk are supposed to make you more mindful, maybe fall isn’t your favorite season or you want to try something new. Now with the great power of technology you can immerse yourself in a new environment while still being mindful. No, I’m not talking about teleportation, but the great world of YouTube! Find guided walking tours like this one here and embrace the great outdoors in a new way!
ENJOY “ME TIME” WITH “TEATIME”
Peppermint Tea has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety by relaxing muscles and reducing irritability. The menthol in the peppermint is a natural muscle relaxant, bringing out an overall calming effect. Ditch the chill pill, and enjoy a nice cup of tea! We recommend our Sweet Peppermint, which you can get here.
While people don’t generally view mindfulness and meditation as a priority, it is almost always beneficial (and very okay) to take a breather, step back and get it together. So time to take out that calendar and schedule some wind down time. Your mind and body will thank you!