National Relaxation Day is coming up on August 15th and we are celebrating this holiday by taking a step back from the fast-paced world we live in to relax and unwind. Although some stress can be helpful in pushing you to do your best in day-to-day activities, too much stress can be harmful to your mental and physical wellbeing. Below are five ways to decompress and take care of yourself on National Relaxation Day:

1. Create an at-home relaxation retreat.

With so many daily stressors, it’s important to have a space to go to at home where you can unwind and relax. Make this space fit your personality by adding your favorite items. Some items that are great for relaxation are books, coloring materials, incense, flowers, plants and more. Add extra comfort to your nook by incorporating a lounge chair or other relaxing furniture options, like these here. Make the furniture pop with a cool Moroccan rug or comfy throw pillows!

2. Go on a nature walk.

When you get outside and step away from busy urban areas or crowded streets, you allow your mind time to relax and recharge. Spending time outdoors has many positive effects on your mental health and is a great stress reliever. Recent studies found that these benefits can last for seven hours after you have experienced nature’s stress-relieving benefits, allowing you to feel happier, longer. If you find yourself spending too much time at your desk, make it a point to get out for lunch and take a walk and clear your mind with the positive distractions of nature.

3. Spend time with close friends or family who make you laugh.

More laughter in your life means less stress. Laughter triggers a release of endorphins, which have proved to create a positive state of mind and boosts optimism, self-confidence, and feelings of self-worth. Combine laughter with time spent with the people closest to you and you will feel less stressed in no time. Hosting at home activities like a DIY paint party is a fun and easy way to bond with friends and family and a great way to relax and focus in on the present to release stress.

4. Meditate or stretch.

There are many mental and physical benefits of yoga and meditation. It’s a simple stress reliever, even for beginners. Guided meditation apps make it simple to unwind and relax wherever you are with on-the-go meditation tutorials and also allow you to connect with the present world around you no matter how busy life gets.

5. Get a massage.

Massage therapy is a relaxing and stress-reducing option worth exploring when you are in need of some “me-time”. Not only can massage therapy help with muscle relaxation, but it also helps to relieve anxiety, improve sleep, and boost energy levels. So if you are looking for a relaxing activity to do on National Relaxation Day, splurge with a nice massage at your local spa!

Molly Kay

Molly is a writer and animal lover who works in content marketing. She often writes about interior design tips as well as psychology and wellness as it relates to interior spaces. In her free time, she loves to browse bookstores and farmers markets, and spend time with her dogs!