Relaxation Day: Time for Busy Parents to Take a Time Out 

Stress and rushing to get everything accomplished is part of a parent’s life. Working and parenting takes almost every waking moment of our lives. Relaxation Day on August 15 provides a time for busy parents to take a time out and spend the day in rest and relaxation.

The goal of Relaxation Day is to avoid any stressful activities and attempt to achieve a day full of inactivity for you. Try one of the following to celebrate this special day

• Visit a Spa

Stretch out your spa visit with both a manicure and a pedicure. Add a massage for total relaxation.

• Spend the Day at the Beach

Slather on the sunscreen and get a tan. Swim for a while and then walk the beach looking for shells. Take a cooler filled with water bottles, and fruit and veggies for snacking. Go home when the sun begins to set.

• Have a Picnic in the Park

Pack up the picnic basket and enjoy a day in the park. Fly a kite or kick around a ball if you want. Take along a favourite book and follow the shade while you read the entire book.

• Stay Home and Veg Out

Sleep late, stay in your sleep clothing, and do absolutely nothing all day. Listen to music, read a book, or watch TV or a favourite movie. Order delivery for your meals, and take an afternoon nap. Before bed, take a relaxing bubble bath.

• Enjoy Your Favourite Hobby All Day

Whether you love gardening, fishing, or golf, spend the entire day doing what you enjoy, either alone or with a friend.

• Spend the Day “On the Town”

If you love shopping, spend Relaxation Day pursuing great bargains. Start the day with coffee and a pastry to provide the chemical stimulation necessary. While munching, make a list of items you hope to purchase and possible stores where you may find them. To control spontaneous buys you may regret later, double think possible purchases. A good way to do this is to rethink possible purchases while having a light and healthy lunch, then returning to stores to purchase chosen items. Finish with a lavish dinner at a popular local restaurant you’ve been hoping to try.

If you find relaxation is difficult for you to achieve, try one of the following not only on Relaxation Day but every day of the year.

• Take Deep, Calm Breaths

Breathe in deeply and let the air out slowly. Visualize each part of your body becoming limp. Continue until your body feels completely relaxed.

• Listen to Music

Put on your favourite CD or turn on the radio and find your favourite type of music. Sit back and relax while you listen or get up and dance till you release excess energy.

• Take Time Out

Sit and sip a cold drink or a cup of hot calming tea until you feel relaxed. Choose the most comfortable chair in the house. Alternatively, lie down and take a short cat-nap – not longer than twenty minutes.

• Go Outside

Take a brisk walk around your garden or down the block. Exercise releases feel-good hormones – endorphins. Take time to smell the flowers because nature has a calming effect.

• Call a Friend

A chat with a friend or family member about daily activities sometimes helps one get a new perspective about their life, laugh at problems, and relax.

August 15 is the day to enjoy either doing absolutely nothing, or participating in a favourite relaxation activity. Use Relaxation Day to refresh and rewind and then try to repeat some of your favourite relaxation activities every day of the year.