Take a Mental Vacation

With all the craziness that is going on around us it’s no wonder that people are more anxious, overwhelmed and stressed. For some of us, escaping to a tropical paradise is just not possible.  However, taking a vacation doesn’t have to cost you a thing - a Mental Vacation that is.  A Mental Vacation gives you a chance to relax and rejuvenate. That means taking a break from everyday life, unplugging from your devices,  ignoring the news and social media.  The goal is to place your mind in a relaxed state of harmony and calmness.

Here are some ways to take a mental vacation;

Read a Book

Getting lost in a good book is a perfect way to escape what’s going on around you and help you feel relaxed and refreshed.

Visualize

Think of a pleasant moment - either a past memory or a fantasy.  Dream of something that makes you happy. Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a relaxing place. This place is where you feel completely safe because stress and worries hold no power over you.  Feel the tension leave the body.

Anxiety Canada offers a walkthrough of a mental vacation for free on their site. 

Check it out here: https://www.anxietycanada.com/articles/mental-vacations/

Take a Nap

Lock yourself in your bedroom and take a short nap.  A short period of sleep helps to rejuvenate the brain and reduce stress in the body.

Meditate

Meditation, even for as little as 12 minutes each day, has been shown to lower cortisol, reduce inflammation, balance the immune system, and even improve empathy and compassion. 

Connecting with yourself is a great form of relaxation which helps to calm down your nervous system.

Go for a Walk

Taking a stroll through nature – the woods, along the river or waterfront, etc. helps to get you moving. Exposure to nature has similar effects.  Adding the sun into the picture is an added bonus.

Listen to Music

Put the headphones on, close your eyes  and turn on some music that will relax you.

Something as simple as birds chirping, crashing waves or meditation music is helpful.

Play Your Favorite Musical Instrument

Music can influence your thoughts, feelings and behaviors.  Disconnect from the work and play the guitar, piano, violin, etc.  I bring out the harmonica.  I’m not very good at it but it helps relax the mind and body.

Get in the habit of treating yourself to a Mental Vacation.  If you can, do it daily, otherwise plan some time in advance to have some “time-off”.  You will be amazed at how much better you feel!