It probably hasn’t escaped people’s notice that I’ve not been having the best of weeks. Whatever I blame, be it “winter blues”, “being a woman” or “just a shitty week” what I hadn’t done until yesterday afternoon was admit I needed a bit of a break and some me time. I like to think I always need to be busy to be ok, often this is true and I thrive on the buzz of being occupied but sometimes what I really need is to take a step back and just indulge in some peace and quiet and calm.
It’s not something that comes easily to me, being able to just sit and relax but over the years I’ve learned a few tips and tricks for un-winding.
1. Tea. I am a hardcore coffee drinker but when I’m stressed out even I have to admit that tea is best. There is something so soothing and calming about tea and this from Whittards couldn’t have arrived at a better time. My favourite for relaxing is the Jasmine variety but all of them are amazing and the Moroccan mint is super soothing on a stressed out tummy. My handy little tea pot keeps the leaves out of my brew and I’m going to keep the tins for jewellery/bits and bobs storage after. I’m not a dainty tea cup person when it comes to hot drinks. The bigger the better as far as I’m concerned, my favourite vessel is my “Espana” mug, hunted down and bought back from last year’s adventure to Spain. I can’t wait to see what I bring back this year…no injuries I hope, but to be sure I’ll be taking out travel insurance this time such as Age Concern UK Travel Insurance
2. Meditation. I was a sceptic for so long but now I am regularly found taking some time out just to breathe deep and zone out. If you haven’t tried it because you think it’s too “airy fairy” I urge you to rethink.
3. Mindless tasks. Sorting a tin of buttons, playing a pointless game, window shopping for *the* perfect gift for someone even if their birthday isn’t for another six months. Fill my head with a trivial task and I can easily lose a couple of hours of my day without thinking of anything else.
4. Baking. Anyone who bakes will understand this.
Once upon a time kitty cuddles would have been on this list too but Mae is going through a difficult teenage rebellion and time spent with her is far from relaxing!
What do you do when you need to get away from it all and relax? What am I missing?
xxx
oooh girl i love me some tea! david’s ‘secret weapon’ white tea is my fave bc it tastes like marzipan! also, could not agree more about meditation! i was a skeptic but i use this app: http://www.getsomeheadspace.com/shop/headspace-meditation-app.aspx
i have worked my way up to 20mins of guided meditation now!
I found that having a bath and lighting a couple of candles helps me de-stress and relax. š xx
What a lovely genuine post š I know the feeling, I’ve been through a really tough few weeks, probably the toughest of my life and I’ve found just blogging or writing in general has really helped me to chill.
Hope next week is better for you
Amy x cocktailsinteacups.blogspot.co.uk
nice ;))
would you like to follow each other?
THANK YOU for the reminder about the benefits of relaxation through meditation and mindless tasks. Both can be a blessing when feeling stressed. Les Mis must be a superb film! I must keep it on my the list of films to be seen. I’m so sorry to hear that Mae hadn’t sought to be cuddled – I hope she finds more Valentine’s Day cuddling spirit sometime today or soon. Alas, my main Valentine’s Day comforts have come from a couple of comments on my review of the red knickers of my Valentine’s Day outfit. I hope your Valentine’s Day is a very happy and loved one and just keeps on getting better! š
Sorry youre having a bum week lovely. But i always feel that after a bit of a downsome-one, the week after always seems alot brighter (and we’re due for some much needed sunshine here in the uk… so fingers crossed – bring on next week!)
Ive been thinking about trying meditation, i really need to learn some minfulness and be okay with just “sitting and being” cos i struggle immensely with not “doing” anything. so id love to know you’re thoughts on how to get into it… if im perfectly honest, it scares the bejesus outta me! :p
anyways, Happy V-day and hang in there! xx
Tea, a hot bubble bath and a good book works for me x
Tea (earl grey or redbush with vanilla), good books and relaxing youtube videos are my go-tos at the minute. I’m working on the meditation stuff too.
hopefully things perk up for you soon lovely, sending lots of love your way x
Hugs to you my dear! I hope you feel better soon, keeping you in my thoughts and prayers! Mmmm, love jasmine tea, especially the loose leaf stuff! CBC’s brother bought me a gorgeous Japanese tea-set a couple of years ago which I love!
xx
Every day can’t be a great day. A few days ago I pretty much had a breakdown. But just remember, you’ll have amazing days too. Just take it a step at a time.
I hope your bad week gets better love! And that Mae calms down a bit haha. I’m a bit stressed too, will deff be using some of these tips…there’s only so much Geordie Shore I can watch! xxx