50 Easy Ways to Slow Down & Relax (Right Now)

Well, it’s that time of year again — the sprint from Thanksgiving to New Year’s.

While many of us look forward to the holiday season, there’s no denying that it’s one of the busiest times of the whole year. In fact, early winter ranks as the most stressful time of year for many people.

Looking for some easy ways to slow down, pause, and catch your breath? Here are 50 simple things you can do to regain your holidaytime equilibrium.

Ready, Set…Relax

1. Take a slow, mindful walk in nature.
2. Practice deep breathing exercises.
3. Enjoy a warm cup of herbal tea.
4. Listen to calming music or sounds of nature.
5. Write in a journal or practice free writing.
6. Do a body scan meditation to relax each muscle.
7. Try progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
8. Engage in gentle yoga or stretching.
9. Read a book that brings you peace.
10. Take a relaxing bath with Epsom salts.
11. Practice mindfulness while eating a meal.
12. Create art or doodle without any goal in mind.
13. Sit in a comfortable spot and focus on your breath.
14. Do a guided meditation or use meditation apps.
15. Declutter a small area of your home mindfully.
16. Try aromatherapy with essential oils.
17. Practice gratitude by writing down things you’re thankful for.
18. Do a digital detox for a set period of time.
19. Spend time with a beloved pet.
20. Watch the sunset or sunrise mindfully.
21. Enjoy a relaxing massage session.
22. Do a puzzle or play a board game.
23. Take a break and do nothing for a few minutes.
24. Listen to a podcast that inspires mindfulness.
25. Practice mindful breathing exercises.
26. Create a peaceful and calming ritual before bedtime.
27. Practice self-compassion and self-kindness.
28. Spend time in your garden or tend to indoor plants.
29. Write down your thoughts to clear your mind.
30. Do a mini-meditation during a work break.
31. Practice mindful listening in conversations.
32. Use a coloring book for adults.
33. Create a relaxing atmosphere with candles or incense.
34. Mindfully drink a glass of water, paying attention to the sensation.
35. Reflect on positive affirmations.
36. Practice the “STOP” technique – Stop, Take a breath, Observe, and Proceed mindfully.
37. Reflect on a happy memory.
38. Create a vision board of your aspirations.
39. Try Tai Chi or Qigong for relaxation and mindfulness.
40. Practice photography of everyday objects.
41. Use a stress ball or fidget toy mindfully.
42. Write a letter to your future or past self.
43. Practice a one-minute gratitude exercise.
44. Create a calming playlist of your favorite songs.
45. Practice mindfulness during a daily routine activity.
46. Take a break to focus on your breath for a few minutes.
47. Spend time in a quiet place with no distractions.
48. Mindfully observe your surroundings without judgment.
49. Practice gentle stretching for relaxation.
50. Use a mantra or phrase for relaxation and focus.

More Ways to Slow Down: Get a Massage

As you can see, most of these suggestions don’t require a lot of time or effort. Most of these suggestions require nothing more than a brief pause to refocus and gather your thoughts.

Of course, if you have an hour to spare, one of the best ways to slow down is on a massage table.

How long has it been since your last massage? Why not take a break from the holiday madness and do something good for you?

Schedule your next massage here or give us a call at 970-748-1600 and get ready to say hello to a happier, more relaxed you!