Work/life balance is essential, and part of achieving balance is having things you can do that are relaxing, enjoyable and perhaps even distracting. A good “reset” can do wonders for your optimism and productivity.
Here are a few things you can do in 15 minutes that might help you achieve that reset.
Stretch
It doesn’t matter if you are a yogi with 30 years of experience and the ability to fold yourself into a box, or a complete newbie. It’s been proven that yoga – or just stretching for that matter – is good for the body and the mind. You’ll feel more relaxed, and hopefully gain a bit of perspective on anything that worried you.
Check out limitless online apps, find a private space, and go for it.
Eat Some Yoghurt
Or drink some milk or eat some salmon. All are loaded with vitamin B12, which will help you relax and potentially reduce feelings of overwhelm. If you don’t happen to have any salmon lying around, citrus fruits are good sources of vitamin B.
Call Someone
According to a University of California study, a problem shared really is a problem halved. Participants experienced reduced stress levels once sharing their frustration with, in this case, a tape recorder. But you don’t need a tape recorder, you have friends, and you don’t need to have problems to share to reap the benefits of conversation. Talking with those you care about is good medicine and a great way to spend 15 minutes.
Listen to Music
Music is wonderful because it doesn’t need to serve a specific purpose. You can put in your headphones, and listen to hard rock, gangsta rap, classical music or white noise – whatever makes you happy.
Looking for the world’s most relaxing music, as proven by neuroscientists? Google “Marconi Union.” You won’t regret it.
Smell Something Wonderful
Your sense of smell is perhaps one of the most powerful tools you have for feeling good. It’s the sense that is most connected to memory, which is why a smell will remind you of an old flame, childhood holidays or other times where you felt happy and contented. Think about what smells put you in a positive state, and…smell that.
Eat Chocolate
Dark chocolate has loads of health benefits beyond being delicious. It’s been proven to reduce disease, lower cholesterol levels and even aid in reducing memory loss.
More importantly, it’s delicious.
Spend 15 minutes a day doing something that makes you feel good, or at least distracts you from your day for a while. Breaks – that is, genuine breaks – improve performance and help you put life into perspective.
