DISCLAIMER: This post has been sponsored by AllCure Spine & Sports Medicine.
I’ve talked about wanting to relax many times on this blog in the past, but it is just so hard to find the time. I start the week out with good intentions, but as each hour goes by, my day seems to get busier and busier, making it hard to put down my work, or avoid my to do list, in order to do something good for me. I know this is bad, trust me. In fact, I just read a study done by Dartmouth College about stress and relaxation. They said, “The ability to relax is important in effectively managing stress and anxiety. When we feel stressed, our bodies react with what is called the “fight or flight” response. Our muscles become tense, our heart and respiration rates increase, and other physiological systems become taxed.” This is just one of many reasons why everyone should make time for relaxation. I know that I am going to try my best to incorporate into my daily life. Here are a few ways that I have considered doing so:
Bubble Baths
Bubble baths are so relaxing and I don’t know why I do not do them more often! Head over to your local Lush, or Target and grab some bath bombs, bubble bars (or soap), and throw them in your tub. You can read while you are in the tub, listen to relaxing music, or even watch a TV show or movie, if you have access to a computer or TV – just make sure you don’t drop your phone in the tub. This is also a great time to do a hair mask, exfoliate your body, or put on a face mask. Warm bubble baths can promote detox, it can help boost your immunity, and they also promote healthy skin. I would highly recommend avoiding synthetic scents, though. Instead, try finding organic, or natural products to use, or you can even create your own with essential oils!
Face Masks
Face masks are so good for you! They help draw out any impurities, hydrate your skin, remove excess oils, and help improve the appearance of your pores. They also help you feel clean and refreshed, which is important when it comes to relaxation. The great thing about facial masks is the fact that you can pretty much do them anywhere and anytime. If you are taking time to relax, do one in the bathtub, or while reading a book. If you are needing to use one on the go, put it on right before you leave work and then take it off as soon as you get home.
Manicures & Pedicures
There is nothing better than having someone massage your hands and feet, while making them look and feel better. Getting your nails done, no matter if you get both your feet and hands done, or one or the other, promotes relaxation and it keeps your nail beds healthy. Just make sure they always open a new pack of nail tools, or you risk infection.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a fantastic addition to your stress-relief plan. It can help with back and neck pain + migraines, which can sometimes be a result from built up stress and it can also help with depression, anxiety, and even general emotional health. In addition to stress relief and pain and emotional health help, it can also be used for a wide range of different health conditions, which can improve quality of life. For example, if you have inflammatory disorders, neurological and neuromuscular disorders, mental health conditions, accident/injury recovery, gastrointestinal and liver disorders, as well as some conditions affecting the kidneys, lungs, heart, or reproductive system.
Massage
Who doesn’t love a good massage? I think a massage is the epitome of a stress reliever. The great thing about a massage is that usually during your appointment, you are only thinking about how great your body feels, instead of thinking about everything that is stressing you out. Massages are also great for pain relief, and can be focused on the muscles, injuries and problem areas, which is great for all around health! “Achieving maximum health is more than the absence of an illness. Authentic human health also includes the fulfillment of potential — potential for healing, creativity, wisdom, love, friendship, family, career, spirituality, physical fitness, leadership, and more,” says AllCure Spine & Sports Medicine.
AllCure Spine & Sports Medicine is the private practice of Anthony Alfieri, D.C., M.S.. They are located in Monroe, NJ and have designed their office to be an oasis for healing, with a family atmosphere. Between Massage, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, and more, you will definitely find your relief from pain and stress when visiting their office.
Vacation
A vacation is obviously not an ‘everyday’ way to relax and work on your stress levels, but it can significantly help your stress levels before a trip, during a trip, and after your trip, so I highly recommend planning at least a few short (or long) trips throughout the year!
