Chill Out Sessions

The harder I work , the more I realise the importance of being able to relax/ switch off/ wind down/ chill out at the end of the day or week. Developing a good strategy to do this is really the only way to maintain sanity and general health. 

Here are a few things I like to do when the world begins to get on top of me, or as a prophylactic measure before everything falls apart…

1) Listen to cool music: I have to say I am regularly a fan of rock/ alternative, but I love to dance and sing along to classic pop songs. Recently I have discovered Ministry of Sound’s Chill Out Sessions really do live up to their name… some of my favourite ‘chill out’ artists include Morcheeba, Groove Armada and Planet Funk. I can even tune out and study with this type of music on because the lyrics are repetitive and not necessarily meaningful.

2) Green tea: it has know health benefits such as its high anti-oxidant content thought to fight against cancer, its stimulant effect which raises the metabolism and its diuretic effect which flushes the body of toxins. I think there is also a placebo effect which makes me feel instantly more healthy when I have a cup. Its a great substitute for coffee which can sometimes spike energy levels then leave you feeling flat.

3) Running: i’m no marathon runner by any stretch, but a good half-hour run along the beach or river is a great way to let go of stress, get the heart pumping and wake the brain up. I find exercise is also a good time to reflect, and do some life problem solving if necessary. 

4) Phone a friend: this one is very obvious, but having a good chat is a cathartic experience, if life is getting tough a friend may be able to shed some light on a situation, take your mind off it for a while, or just act as a supportive spring board for ideas. 

'Bengal Tiger Phone' - I couldn't resist!

 

I have to say, balance is a massive issue in my life, I’d like to think I live a fairly balanced life, but every week I drop at least one ball that I have to find a way to re-integrate into this juggling act. If anyone has any other suggestions like this, I am all ears!

~ by missalpha on May 9, 2009.