Optimize Downtime: The Big List of Ideas to Relax Faster

For many of us, the moment we jump the first hurdle of creating downtime in our day, a new hurdle appears: actually enjoying it. This post is all about how to relax faster so that you can actually spend that downtime on relaxing activities.

In a ridiculously efficient® world, you have a routine that you follow to get out of a focused state and into a relaxed one.

For me, my workday always ends with closing my laptop, packing my things up and leaving the officebar. Before I slowly walk back into the house, I take a lap around the backyard and make a point of gazing up at the sky. I notice how my lemon tree is growing, or what new flowers have bloomed since yesterday. I try and count the nests in the trees, and notice the clouds or passing planes. This relaxing, 10-minute activity naturally quiets my mind and causes me to breathe a little deeper.

Here are some ideas to help you relax faster. Try combinations of these and see what's most effective for you.

The Big List of Ideas to Relax Faster

• Stretch, with props or without
• Breathe deeply
• Make and enjoy a cup of tea
• Meditate (try these tips)
• Try progressive muscle relaxation
• Roll out on a foam roller
• Lay down on the floor (or a yoga mat on the floor). Stretch your arms and legs as far as you can in opposite directions.
• Count your breaths.
• Visualize an activity or place that makes you happy.
• Roll a golf or lacrosse ball underneath your feet. Use a bouncy ball or marble to hit pressure points.
• Give yourself (or your partner) a hand massage.
• Take a shower.
• Brush your hair or massage your scalp. (Better yet, have someone do this to you.)
• Spent 10 minutes "zoning out" in a relaxing place.
• Stare out the window and let your mind wander.
• Walk around the neighborhood.
• Have a solo dance party.
• Listen to music that makes you happy.
• Inhale a soothing scent like lavender, citrus or chamomile.
• Cuddle with a pet or your partner.
• Give an enormous hug.
• Watch something funny.
• Hang from a pull-up bar or sturdy tree branch.
• Let your head hang, chin to your chest. While breathing, allow the height of your head to pull you forward, lengthening your spine.
• Write a love note.
• Paint.
• Rest your eyes with slides of cool cucumber over your eyes.
• Put on a face masque.