A day of doing nothing

With the hustle and bustle of modern life, the constant on the go feeling, and endless list of tasks and things to do we can become exhausted and feel we always have to be doing something productive. The trouble is, this can burn us out and make us feel uncomfortably overwhelmed. Whether it be our jobs, family life, studies, home life, current situation etc, We all need a day off to do nothing sometimes, to recharge and relax. Wouldn't life be so much easier if I were a dog? That's a thought you may have had. I could chill out on the sofa all day, grab some food when I'm hungry, and go for a relaxing walk in the evening.

​

A day of nothing could be anything from relaxing on the sofa watching netflix or reading a book, lying in bed, going to a spa, a walk and coffee in the park, browsing around the shops. It's anything that is relaxing and stress free that’ll help you to unwind and recharge your body and mind. Something that is an escape from day to day life. Consider the things that you love to do and something that you haven't done in a long time.

​

Here are some suggestions:

​

• Avoid all social media and turn off your notifications.

• Leave those unanswered emails and messages till tomorrow.

• If you choose to go out somewhere - go to a beauty spot like a park, beach, reservoir, quiet little town, or forest. Maybe head out somewhere you’ve never been before to discover something new. If you have a dog then take them with you and enjoy the time you spend together.

• Let someone else do the cooking - treat yourself to a meal out or takeaway.

• Here’s an interesting one - If it's a clear night then go out to stargaze.

• If you have kids - head out to park or a fun day out somewhere where you can all enjoy yourselves and an activity, like an indoor water park or wildlife centre.

• If you have a bath tub then go all out and have a long relaxing bath with bubbles, oils, bath bombs and candles.

• Relax on the sofa, close your eyes, and listen to some calming music and a story/podcast. Choose something that is positive and interesting to you.

• Write a story or draw/paint a picture.

• Go outside to get some fresh air and find somewhere like the garden, balcony, or bench to sit down to relax.

• Avoid reading/watching any negative news.

• Invite over a friend or head over to their place for a cup of tea and a catch up.

​

The reason why this is so important is because it's vital to live in the moment, for our physical and mental health. It's all well and good trying to get so much done but eventually we will get to a point where we will just run out of energy. Imagen filling up a car full of petrol, then speeding up the motorway at 70mph, eventually that car is going to run out of fuel, and if you don't stop soon after the warning light comes on and refuel the car, you’ll eventually come to a full stop and break down. Use your free time to not only be productive, but to sometimes just have a day of doing nothing in order to have a break from your busy life. You should never feel guilty by having a day like this or a day to yourself. Just remember we are human beings and not robots. Go on treat yourself! You've earned it.