I once was an advocate of slowing down, smelling the roses and savouring the journey as we travel. The fact is, I get bored very easily. I last about an hour if I have nothing to do, I get fidgety when on holiday just sitting by the beach, I like being near the shops ...you get the picture.
Each of us is very different. I relax by staying on the go. Others relax by reading a book, others by adventure sports, the list goes on. I now say - do what it is that makes you feel the most relaxed. 'Do one thing a day that makes you smile' is my new mantra.
Research is great, I base all my work on contemporary research. But at the end of the day, research is 'for the majority', not the totality. Research tells us that we should take time out to rest, relax, and recuperate. And we should, but it's how we do this that is different for each of us.
Adhering strictly to what others say that you should do may have the reverse effect, it may make you worry that you aren't doing what you should be doing because others said that you should. I knew someone who was told he should exercise more so he took up running. He hated running but drove himself to do it because he was told it would be good for him. It's just like giving up an unhealthy habit, we know it is bad and that we should stop, but this worry simply adds another layer to the unhealthy habit.
Do what you believe is right for you, if it feels right then it is. You are unique. After all, looking at the roses as you walk by can be just as beneficial as stopping to smell them for some of us.
Let's talk!
How Do You Relax?