As technology has taken a great hold onto society, people have unlimited access to everything at all times. We are constantly being updated on what others are doing, world events, advertisements, and others are always to reach each other. This along with short-form content leads to the issue of constant stimulation that the brain was not equipped to handle, adding unnecessary stress to our lives. Here I will list some things that I have incorporated that have helped me relax and feel better in daily life:

1. Meditation

• Meditation reduces stress. It allows for the individual to practice mind and body integration by creating awareness , usually through breathwork. I once thought of it as the act of clearing away thoughts, but I have reformed it into allowing my thoughts to flow while you observe their passing and then letting them slowly dissipate. 
• There are great resources on guided meditation on YouTube for whatever subject you are interested in. I would recommend Joe Dispenza.

2. Yoga

• Yoga is another practice that is included in some cultures. It is similar to meditation as it seeks to create a mind and body connection.
• It is a low impact exercise that concentrates on building balance, strength, increasing flexibility, and improving respiration. I use it to stretch in the mornings to help me start my day.
• There are many channels on YouTube that cater to different levels and shorter sessions for when you are in a rush. Somebody I enjoy is Yoga with Adriene and Yoga with Bird.

3. Reading

• Reading has been proven to lessen stress and helps your brain form new neural connections. The rhythmic moving of the eyes back and forth and the feeling of the paper against the skin helps integrate mind and body.
• It can help you discover new hobbies, improve your vocabulary, help with empathy, and allow yourself to take a break from everyday life. I have found it to be a more fulfilling alternative to scrolling on my phone. It is definitely one of my favorite pastimes.

4. Skincare & Facial Massage

• Skincare involves taking care of your skin. Facial massaging is exactly what it says, massaging the face. I sometimes will use a gua sha, which is a part of traditional Chinese medicine practice, where I use movements with a tool to drain lymphatic fluid from my body.
• A simple skincare routine includes a cleanser and a moisturizer with sunscreen during the day. If you want to be a little more complex than you can include extra products, like serums, spot treatments, and exfoliators. If you do use sunscreen during the day, it is recommended to use a double cleanser, using both an oil based and a water based cleanser, to remove it at night. 
• Facial massaging has allowed me to release tension I store in my face and have made me look less puffy. You do not need to use a gua sha and using your hands works just as well. It helps for there to be a “slip” so the tool glides across the skin; this can be water or skincare products. There are many tutorials on what to do on YouTube and TikTok.

Thank you for reading and I hope you experiment with any of these tips! Remember you deserve to have time for yourself to nurture your mind and spirit.