6 Ways to Enhance Your Downtime
In this fast-paced society we live in today, it’s rare to have downtime. Whether we’re working full-time, running errands, doing extracurricular activities or taking care of chores around the house (or all of the above), we’re often too busy to even think about taking a moment for ourselves. But taking time for yourself, to soak in the present, is essential for living a healthy, balanced life. Check out our tips below for some ways to fit in, and make the most of, your downtime.
Practice Self-Care
If you find that you’re “on'' all the time and constantly giving yourself to others, it’s important to incorporate some downtime into your daily schedule and focus on your own wants and needs. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty glass! So try to dedicate some time each night (or whenever works best for you), to relax, unwind and practice self-care. Putting on a face mask, implementing a skin care routine using luxury products from our Balanced Lifestyle Box or taking a warm bath are some simple ways to de-stress after a long and busy day.
Spend Time with Loved Ones
Your downtime doesn’t have to be spent alone! Hanging out at home or in a calm and comfortable setting with people you love is a great way to reset and fill your bucket.
Read a Book, Watch a Documentary or Listen to a Podcast
Instead of binge-watching a series on Netflix and wondering where the last three hours of your life went (don’t worry, we all do it), try to spend time learning something new! Reading a book, watching a documentary or listening to a podcast are all wonderful ways to expand your mind and grow your knowledge on different topics.
Take a Short Afternoon Nap
Who says you have to be awake to enjoy your downtime? Some days, you may just want to drift off into a slumber, and that’s a-ok! All you need is a cozy atmosphere and some comfortable blankets and pillows for your trip to dreamland. FYI - the super soft cushion covers from our Winter Balanced Home Box and beautiful oversized throw blanket from our Spring Balanced Home Box can really enhance downtime (and your home décor 😉).
Engage in Meditation
Meditation and the art of doing nothing is overlooked by many because it feels “unproductive,” but it is necessary for the mind. Observing your thoughts, checking in with your emotions and setting intentions for your day can help relax your mind, body and soul. Not only does practicing mindfulness help relieve stress, but it can also maximize your day and give you a sense of direction. For tips on how to get started with this daily practice, check out this blog post.
Try Exercising
By exercising, we don’t mean you have to hit the gym for an intense workout session. Instead, you can spend your downtime moving at a slower, more leisurely pace. A long walk outdoors or a calming yoga session might be just what you need to re-fresh. Check out this post for seven yoga stretches that can help boost your mood and your energy.
Don’t be too hard on yourself if the only thing you find yourself doing when you have some downtime is scrolling through TikTok or watching TV. However, if you feel like you want to maximize your downtime, these tips can help lead you to live an overall healthier, happier lifestyle.
To your Balanced health,
Your friends at The Balanced Company
