Don't you sometimes feel so worn out that you just want some quiet "me" time? Especially now that the holidays are over. I think we're all expected to be superheroes and do it all. We're not. We're just humans trying to do the best we can and most of the time, just keeping our heads above water (BTW, special shout-outs to moms and dads, and anyone who has to take care of kids. I only have a cat, and I have absolutely no idea how you guys do it).
Credit: Catherina Schürmann
When I'm not working, I usually find myself running around doing errands, buying groceries, doing laundry, cooking for family, running out to meet friends, etc. But I do have the occasional day when I have no chores to do, I made no plans with friends, my family is out doing their own thing, and my cat is sleeping hard in her little bed. That's my day to just chill!
1. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and slowly start your day
Credit: Brigitte Tohm
Most days I'm usually rushing out the door to catch my bus, travel mug of coffee in one hand and a granola bar in the other. Sadly, by the time I get to where I'm heading, I usually don't even remember if it was a good coffee or bad coffee, just simply that I got some caffeine in my system.
When I have a day to myself, there's nothing I love more than to start my day slowly with a fancier coffee in my hand, in a proper ceramic mug, and just stare out the window seeing what's outside. Now, I say "fancier" because I'm no coffee connoisseur. To me, making my coffee with milk instead of water is already pretty fancy to me!
2. Eat something that you love
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During the busy work week, I like bringing leftovers for lunch even if they're not my favorite. The less I have to do, the better. However, that doesn't mean I should settle for less when I don't have to. Now, that doesn't mean that I have to necessarily try a new recipe, or cook something really time consuming. That sort of goes against my goal of trying to chill out.
What I do insist on however, is eating something I really enjoy. I love a simple mac and cheese or a big bowl of clam chowder (canned is OK!). But just because the meal is simple doesn't mean it has to be boring. I make it feel special by making sure I use the prettiest plates and bowls I have. Why should I always save those for special occasions or guests? I think I'm pretty special too!
3. Enjoy a bubble bath
Credit: Nathaniel Kohfield
I love baths. But spending 30+ minutes on one isn't something I have time for on a regular basis. So when I have a day to myself, having a bubble bath (especially in the middle of the day!) is something that is definitely on my to-do list. My number one requirement is lots and lots of bubbles. So thick that you can't even see yourself under the water anymore! However, I do sometimes switch it up with a bath bomb. It's so fun to see it fizzing in the water and turning your bath a different color.
I also love playing music on my iPad. It really does set the mood. And of course, how can I forget a nice glass of wine? But my bathtub ledge is too narrow for those bathtub trays (the whole thing will probably slide into the tub with me!), so I just put my glass on the floor. But I highly recommend using a stainless steel wine glass and not an actual glass one. There's nothing that ruins a relaxing bath quicker than to drop your glass and have it shatter next to you when you have no clothes on!
4. Read a magazine
Credit: 91 Magazine
Because of my job, I spend the majority of my time on my computer. So on my day off, I like to give my brain and eyes a break and read magazines, mainly for the photos. My favorite is travel magazines. I'm a firm believer in "I work to live" and am grateful that I have a job that allows me to do the things I love. While flipping through the magazines, I allow myself to dream and mentally make notes of all the places I still want to explore. Tuscany, Maldives, and Greece are definitely on my bucket list!
5. Spend some time doing nothing
Credit: Brad West
Lastly, just spend 10 or 15 mins with your eyes closed and breathe. Try not to even think. We're constantly rushing around and it's so easy to forget that sometimes, we just need to slow down. When the weather is nice, I'll take a blanket outside in the backyard and just sit there for a little while. But any spot indoors will do just as well. I do have a rule though – no music and definitely no TV at the same time! This is a chance for you to have some quiet time for yourself, so no cheating!
Well, these are all the simple things that work for me. I feel recharged, energized, and ready to face another long week. Hopefully, some will work for you too!
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