When I talk about the importance of relaxing for positive mental wellbeing I often hear cynical laughter. Time to relax? What planet are you on Garner? I don’t have time for that.

In a way, society glorifies being busy all the time. It’s so great to have a life full of activities, the perfect house and so on. But why? Think of all the zen people you know. They take time to relax, they can chill, they can switch off.

It shouldn’t be viewed as a luxury, it should be viewed as a necessity. It’s necessary for positive mental AND physical wellbeing. By the way, you have to truly relax which means stop doing and don’t beat yourself up for stopping. If you sit there thinking you should be doing something, that’s not effective relaxing.

Relaxing flips the switch on a stressed out body. Our heart rate lowers, breathing slows and blood pressure reduces. Our muscles relax and true relaxation can help reduce pain. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkiller. It gets rid of the stress chemical cortisol which allows us to sleep better.

I find that when I relax I have my best ideas. It helps focus my mind and I can make better decisions afterwards. Relaxing with other people brings me joy and laughter. It also allows me to appreciate the good parts of my life. To take a balanced view of my life.

Relaxation doesn’t have to be a grand activity. It can be a quiet cup of tea on the balcony, a mindful walk in nature, or simply curling up with a good book. I love just sitting in my lounge chair watching a fireplace video on YouTube.

The key is to make sure that you take time out, purposeful time out to unplug, de-stress, and recharge. Allocate time, put it on your to do list. Take a deep breath and join me. It’s good for you and that’s scientifically proven.