Finding your calm: Building a relaxation ritual

Creating time for relaxation is not a luxury, it’s a necessity, especially during times of stress and change. We live in a world that is constantly moving, where people don’t stop often enough and where the pressure to get things done is ever present. This is coming from a person who chooses to be constantly busy and seeking out new experiences when I’m not working. But a good friend reminded me of this recently, the necessity to wind down a bit in the evenings and I’m finally starting to listen. Making relaxation a part of your daily routine can have several benefits: lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, improve sleep patterns, reduce pain and improving coping abilities among other things.

So what could your relaxation ritual look like? Here are a few ideas. Some of these could be a daily ritual, while others might be more of a weekly or monthly practice, or even once or twice a year depending on what it is (because if anyone could afford to go to the spa every day, would they ever go anywhere else?)

What relaxation rituals can look like:

-Reading an inspiring book, maybe with a glass of wine, cuddled up with your favorite cozy blanket

-A lovely bubble bath with an aromatic candle in the background and some calming music

-A yoga class in the evening, to wind you down right before bed

-A massage at a favorite getaway spot

-Meditating at nighttime, to focus on rest and letting go of the stress from the day

-Starting a gratitude journal and noting the best parts of the day

-Creating your own home spa – or take a day to visit one