Christmas is almost here and if you are not running around like a headless chicken like most of us are, then you’re the lucky one. Between gift shopping, decorating your home, working after hours and catching up with family and friends, December can be a crazy busy month – to say the least. We find ourselves constantly in a fight, flight or freeze mode; with no time to rest.

Resting does not only include taking time off of work. It means taking a break from your social life, your overflowing emotions and your unending sensorial experiences. To truly rest and feel refreshed, you need to activate your parasympathetic nervous system to regain your balance. Here are some soothing practices to introduce to your day-to-day.

Meditation

Studies have shown that meditation combats depression and anxiety. While you can meditate any time you want, research indicates that the ideal time to meditate is first thing in the morning. 

Starting your morning with 10 minutes of quietude and meditation is the best way to keep your mind at peace throughout the day. When you open your eyes, instead of checking your phone, take a few minutes to meditate before taking on the day.

Similarly, it is always a good idea to end a long day with 10 minutes of meditation.

Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra is an ancient meditation practice that aims to gently release physical and mental tensions. If you’re ready for a simple, pose-free way to wind down and recover from the stressors in your life, practising yoga Nidra is a perfect way. 

Our blog tells you all about yoga Nidra and walks you through the practice.

Restorative Yoga

The name speaks for itself. Restorative yoga is a slower form of yoga that aims to renew and refresh your body and mind after an exhausting day – not to mention that it’s a great way to guarantee a good night’s sleep. 

Grab your mat and practise these poses for instant relief:

• Legs up the wall
• Supported child’s pose
• Supported bridge 
• Spine twist

If you want to dig into restorative yoga, we tell you all about it here.

Pranayama

Pranayama, often referred to as breath technique, is an ancient practice of moving our energy with the help of the breath. It has recently become more popular because of the many health benefits that come from a pranayama practice.

 There are various types of Pranayama practice, here are some of our favourites:

• The alternate nostril technique known as Nadi Shodhana is thought to centre the mind by connecting the right and left sides of the brain.
• The humming bee breath or Bhramari pranayama is used to help calm the mind and stop racing thoughts.
• Kapalabhati pranayama, or skull shining technique, is used to detoxify and purify the body and mind. 

Want to relax and unwind? Practice breathing! 

Daily walks

There is nothing more therapeutic than taking a walk in nature. Try going on a distraction-free 30-minute walk in the park and enjoy your surroundings by keeping your phone in your pocket. Take in the beauty of nature and breathe in the crisp air.

Journaling  

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: to declutter your mind, take your thoughts out on paper. Journaling has been proven to improve mental health and boost your mood. Take out your favourite pen and notebook and start jotting down your thoughts for a few minutes every day. It is incredible how calming this activity can be and how relieved you will feel once you are finished. 

Want to know how to stay consistent with journaling? We tell you how in this blog.