A Vision for Relaxation
Relaxing can be hard! Whilst we might be in desperate need of some relaxing, our minds can be very active and in no hurry to slow down and be present in the moment. That’s why, here at Tyneside and Northumberland Mind, we’re always on the look out for exercises that can help us to relax and give us time to mentally recharge.
It’s vitally important for our mental and physical health that we find ways to relax ourselves and take our bodies out of stress mode on a regular basis. When we do this, we need to focus on the activity at hand – in other words be mindful – to get the maximum benefits. If we’re thinking about our worries, concerns, and stresses while we’re doing enjoyable activities, then they’re less enjoyable and our bodies do not relax.
A relaxation activity we think can have a great benefit on our mental health is that of creating a ‘Relaxation Vision board’.
The aim of this activity is for you to relax whilst being creative and letting your mind wander as you engage in some low effort, leisurely art creation. It’s all up to you what makes it on the board. When we tried this activity in our Wellbeing group we found ourselves adding the great outdoors, a quiet soak in our bath surrounding by lots of bubbles and soothing music, even the sound of rainfall.
Listing these things, in whatever way you choose to express yourself-whether drawn, written or painted-can be a great way to reflect on what makes us feel calm and happy, as well as what activities make us feel good after a particularly taxing day. Whilst the exercise itself can have a great instant effect on your mental health as you take time to slow down and be present in the moment, the finished board can also be used as a reminder to be mindful and utilise activities you enjoy to relax on a regular basis.
Whatever makes your vision board, whether it’s a cup of tea, going swimming, gardening, watching the birds, or walking the dog-your enjoyable activity will act as a great reminder to switch off and relax when you need it most. Giving it a go? Why not, alongside adding things you usually do, try to add one or more new activities to try!
