Do These 5 Things If You Need to Relax

Whether you're prepping for finals week, or just need to relax after a long week of work, unwind with this helpful tips. 

I've been super stressed lately. Between work deadlines and prepping for a baby, I need a moment (or two) to relax. My anxiety tends to get the best of me in stressful situations and make them even worse. It's like a never-ending cycle. There are a few different ways I unwind when my mind is restless, and I'd like to share them with you.

1. Take a bath
I am firm believer in baths. I try to relax in the tub at least 2-3 times a week. I don't do any sort of maintenance...I just relax. Sometimes I'll throw some lavender bubbles in, or some Epsom salt if my body is tired. Even if you don't like baths, just try a short 20-minute soak sesh where you free your mind. It can be very rewarding.

2. Go to the gym.
Trust me, I know this sounds silly. When your life is hectic and you can't seem time to sort your own thoughts, making time for the gym seems impossible. I know it sounds cliche, but a good 30-60 minute workout can really help clear your mind. When you're running or lifting weights, that's really all your focused on, so it helps you get out of your head for a little bit. Make the time to run on the treadmill for a bit.

3. Light some candles.
This is a simple yet effective way to relax without hardly putting in any effort. I love when my house smells nice. It makes me feel clean and relaxed, so candles are a must for me. I actually found these awesome candles at Dollar General that cost about $4 and smell AMAZING. They're the Odor Eliminating brand, which comes in several scents, but I LOVE the island mist smell.

4. Listen to music.
You can take a cruise around town and listen to your favorite album, play some tunes while you soak in the tub, or put it on in your room while you lounge on the bed. Either way, music helps people feel better. Even if you've heard the same songs hundreds of times, play them again and sing along.

5. Write.
Sometimes the best way to explain how you're feeling is to just write it out. I know this advice is coming from someone who went to school for Journalism, but trust me when I say that writing can be very therapeutic. It doesn't have to be pages. You can just jot down some thoughts or moods. It can be helpful to "get it out", even if you're not particularly saying anything to anyone. Option #2 here is to just doodle in a notebook, or color in a coloring book. Occupying your mind is beneficial in stressful situations.