It’s incredibly important to take time for yourself now and then. Everyone needs some “me” time to maintain their sanity, and yet we feel guilty about taking time for ourselves. However, there are lots of ways you can enjoy your leisure time without feeling bad about it.
Most people think it’s selfish to be doing something for themselves, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Taking the time to relax and recharge is incredibly important. If you don’t take time for yourself, your mental health will suffer.
How to enjoy your leisure time without feeling guilty
There are simple ways to balance your work and play so you don’t end up feeling guilty about spending time on yourself. Here is a list of some things you can do to relax without feeling guilty or selfish.
Think about what you need
At the start of your week, make a list of everything you need to get done. From errands to work-related tasks, prioritize the items on your list so that by Sunday night, you know exactly what needs to get done before Monday morning.
Block out time for “me” time
Whether it’s in the morning or evening, block out an hour where there are no distractions and no one will need anything from you. Spend this time reading a book, watching TV, or even just taking a quick nap – anything you want to do is fair game! You’ll be glad you did when Monday rolls around again.
Take short breaks throughout the day
Everyone has heard of the expression “work smarter, not harder.” This can apply to relaxation too. It’s okay to take a quick break during the day, even if you’re at work. Put your headphones on and listen to some relaxing music for just five minutes. If you need to close your eyes and rest them, do it! Your mind and body will thank you later.
Say no
It’s very difficult to say no, especially when we think we might be letting someone else down. But sometimes, saying “no” is perfectly fine! Think about how much time you could save if you didn’t have to direct so much effort toward something that isn’t particularly important or relevant to you. Sometimes saying no can build character too!
Do something nice for yourself now and then
Getting a manicure, going out to eat, or getting a massage can make you feel like a new person. By doing something special for yourself now and then, you can remind yourself that it’s important to take care of yourself and that you deserve these acts of self-care.
Tips for relaxing and unwinding
There are many activities we can do to relax and unwind. Some people enjoy reading, others prefer spending time outdoors, and others find peace in creative endeavors. The following are some suggestions for activities that can help you relax and de-stress.
Outdoor Activities:
There are endless opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors, and all of them offer a chance for relaxation. Hiking, camping, fishing, bird watching, and kayaking are all excellent options for spending time in nature and letting go of the stresses of daily life.
Creative Activities:
Engaging in creative pursuits is a wonderful way to relax. Painting, drawing, sculpting, writing, photography – any activity that allows you to express yourself creatively can be wonderfully calming.
Reading:
Some people love reading, while others prefer listening to an audiobook on their commute or during some other downtime. A good book can transport you into another world and let your mind drift away on the pages.
Listening to Music:
Studies have shown that listening to music is beneficial for brain function, reducing stress, and improving overall mood. Listen to music that you enjoy, whether it’s classical, jazz, rock, or something else entirely – just relax and let your favorite songs wash over you.
Spending Time with Family or Friends:
Evenings spent at home with loved ones offer the opportunity for relaxation. Sit by the fire, play a game, or just talk with your favorite people. You’ll find that you feel refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. You can even arrange for a boat hire overnight to truly be with people you love and away from your worries, even just for a weekend.
Taking Time for Yourself:
Sometimes “me” time is exactly what you need, even if it’s only for an hour before bedtime. Use this time to do something relaxing like soaking in a hot bath, reading, or watching your favorite TV show. You’ll feel refreshed when it’s time to get up in the morning.
It’s not selfish to take the time to relax and recharge your mental batteries. The more you can do for yourself, the better chance you have of being happy. It’s fine to relax and do nothing once in a while, just try not to overdo it!