Refresh — Ten Ways to Refresh and Rejuvenate

BEST YBK PRACTICES

Recharging your internal battery is as important as making sure you have food in the fridge or gas in your car. Finding time or ways to do that are easier than you may think. Consider trying any or all of the following before you get back into full swing of another school year.

Ditch the electronics. Studies have shown that being so connected isn’t the best idea for our brains. We need to have real down time away from electronics so put the smart phone down and go for a walk.
Treat yourself to a spa day. Relieve the tension that has been built up in your muscles from deadlines by visiting your local oasis. Need help finding a spa, visit www.spafinder.com If massage therapy isn’t affordable, try hydrotherapy in your own tub. Put on some soft music, light a few candles and use some bath salts or essential oils to create a respite at home.
Read something that is candy for your mind. Whether it is a murder mystery, a self-help book or some just for fun fiction, choose something that will help you escape from your hectic schedule, even for a short time.
Get in touch with nature. Vitamin D, “the sunshine vitamin” is vital to having strong teeth and bones and a healthy immune system and is free just spending time outside.
Get physical. Walking, running, swimming, biking, canoeing, whatever exercise will help wake up your psyche by releasing endorphins which will also help to put you in a better mood.
Talk to a friend. Picking up the phone and actually talking to someone about something other than work is a great mood lifter.
Laugh, a lot. Laughter really is the best medicine so finding ways to increase it in your everyday life will only make you feel better…and might even be contagious.
Try a new hobby. Look for classes that interest you at local shops and schools. With schedules that accommodate working people (and that are often inexpensive), you can try something new and see if you like it before investing in all the tools and equipment.
Travel. While visiting far off lands may not be in your budget, simply taking a ride in the country and having lunch in a new locale offers you a chance to see what’s outside your little area.
Rest and relax. Getting enough sleep can have profound effects on your stress levels and immune system. Sleep time is when your body and immune system do most of their repairs and rejuvenate to make them ready for the next day. Proper sleep (7-8 hours a night) will enhance your body’s ability to fight infection. Never feel guilty about sneaking in a nap if time allows.