Parents are some of the busiest and overstimulated people in the world. When they’re not needed or being called upon by their children, they’re working, running a household and thinking about the next task they need to complete. Switching off and chilling out certainly doesn’t happen too often, but when you get those small moments of peace it’s vital to make the most of it. It’s true that busy moms don’t often get a spare second to themselves, but during those rare occurrences you need to have some ideas up your sleeve. Luckily, there are several chill out tactics that can help you to completely switch off when you need it the most.
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Each idea may appeal to different types of people, but it’s almost a certainty that you’ll find something that works well for you personally. It’s not always easy to find these pockets of time, so make the most of it and ensure you are prepared with some of the chill out activities mentioned below!
- Read a Book
Even if you’re not usually into reading, books are a brilliant way to turn off your brain and focus on something that makes you feel happy. Books can also stir up a whole host of emotions which can be an entertaining part of your day that you might not have been expecting. Try a handful of different genres and you will soon be able to find a book that excites you and makes you not want to ever put it down. Reading is also known for its plethora of mental health benefits too, as well as improving vocabulary, memory and intelligence; it’s an all-rounder that everyone should try every now and again!
- Play a Game
Now, you’re probably pretty overstimulated from playing games with your kids all day, but this is something a little different that is bound to hit the spot. Playing an online game such as bridge can actually help you to switch off your brain and focus on the task at hand. Online games and puzzles are becoming increasingly popular with parents because it’s a proven way to shift your energy from one thing to the next. Whether you’re playing against an opponent online, or you’re trying to beat your best score, there is a certain level of challenge that goes hand in hand with online games that parents love to get a buzz out of.
- Watch Your Comfort TV Show
When you’re looking to completely turn off your brain, now is not the time to delve into a brand new television show that you’ve never seen before. The unpredictability, and the twists and turns are not good for those with a nervous predisposition, so what are you supposed to watch? Well, if you want to enter full relaxation mode it’s time to turn on that comfort TV show and allow it to work its magic. You already know all of the characters, you’re familiar with the plot, and it’s there to help make you feel fully happy and supported as you wind down after a super busy day with your family. Comfort TV shows don’t get enough credit, so this is certainly an activity that will make you feel fully content.
- Cook a Wholesome Meal
Now, this chill out tactic only works if you’re cooking for yourself. You have to be in a completely relaxed mindset, and know that everything you’re doing is purely for you. Cooking for other people is not an option; you need to focus on what you body needs and wants at that time and make it a self-care activity that gives you everything you’re looking for in terms of happiness and relaxation.
- Indulge in Extra Skincare
Is there anything more exciting than having an evening to yourself to focus on those little things like skincare? Usually, you get into bed in a complete rush after being run off your feet all day, but when that moment arises where you have a full hour to indulge yourself, it could not be timed better. Allow yourself to use all of your fancy products and let your skin feel the benefits of the extra tender loving care. With a face mask, extra moisturizer and a good exfoliator, you will feel like a new parent when you wake up the next day!
- Meditate
Meditation is a winning activity for all parents who are looking to destress and recenter themselves. Meditation doesn’t need to take a long time or feel mentally taxing. Just spending ten minutes in a quiet space away from the hustle and bustle of your household can help you to feel totally refreshed again in a matter of moments. If you’re unsure how to get started with meditation, you can download an app onto your phone and be guided by their expert advice. Take it slow, don’t put any pressure on yourself, and enjoy everything that meditation has to offer you.
- Try Gentle Exercise
Doing some light exercise is a brilliant way to soothe your mind, strengthen your mental resilience and give you a huge mood boost. Whether you’re going swimming, trying a yoga class or simply stretching in the middle of your own living room, you can benefit so much from gentle exercise when you’re feeling stressed or overstimulated. Exercise may not be the first thing that pops into your head when you want to do something relaxing, but you should certainly give it a try and see how it makes you feel afterwards. Many people often say that you never regret a workout, and this is certainly something you can experience first-hand.
- Enjoy Your Favorite Beverage
Whether you’re a fan of a glass of wine, or you’re a sucker for a hot tea, this is your sign to enjoy your favorite beverage without an ounce of guilt. Switching off as a parent is possible as long as you can pinpoint exactly what makes you feel truly relaxed and happy. A beverage is not just a random thing that you consume, it can spark memories, make you feel fulfilled and give you a huge sense of relief too. It’s all about the set-up when it comes to enjoying your beverage of choice; make sure the atmosphere around you is exactly how you want it to be and it will feel even more enjoyable when you take that first sip. Whether you’re in a quiet corner in your home, or you’re in a bustling bar full of atmosphere, there is no right or wrong way to enjoy your favorite beverage.
- Do Something Creative
If you are a creative soul at heart, then this is your sign to indulge in your favorite activity whenever you can. Whether you’re artistically inclined and you like to draw, or you’re a secret singer and you want to blast out your go-to song at the top of your lungs. Doing something creative can completely change your mindset for the better and give you a new lease of life. Creativity is so important when you’re a busy parent as it allows you to do something that fulfills your heart, rather than simply focusing on the needs of your kids. Start up that creative hobby you have always wanted to do and enjoy every moment of being yourself whilst your artistic side runs free!
- Go for a Walk
Getting outside and soaking in your dose of daily Vitamin D is one of the most productive things you can do when you’re hoping to turn off your busy mind. Not only are you getting some exercise in, but you’re also enjoying nature and distancing yourself from everything that is going on at home. Some parents struggle to relax in their own home because there is always something to do. Whether you’ve got a laundry pile or dinner to prep, going for a walk gives you the time and space to switch off from parenthood and enjoy some well-deserved “me” time.
- Take a Nap
Allowing yourself a moment to take a nap, rest and recharge is probably one of the most beneficial things you can do if you’re truly looking to chill out. Sometimes you need to take a full break from the overstimulation of the outside world and simply close your eyes. You should never feel guilty or unproductive for taking a nap because it’s truly an effective method for switching off and feeling fully refreshed afterwards.
As you can see, there are so many different methods that can help you to chill out and relax when you really need it the most. Some of these activities may appeal to you more than others, but you are bound to find something that helps you to feel comfortable, calm and chilled. Depending on your lifestyle, you can weave each of these activities into your day to day routine. Soon enough you will discover the tactics that work best for you so that you can finally feel a huge sense of relaxation and relief when you need it the most.
