In today’s busy world we seem to be constantly on the go. It’s important to take some time out and allow our minds and bodies to relax and repair. Here are a few of my easy and enjoyable tips for de-stressing your day to day life.

Exercise

Exercising is a popular way of relieving stress, and is so easy to do. Try and give yourself at least half an hour a day to go for a run, walk or bike ride. The gym is ideal for those rainy days, but getting fresh air is the best way to really relax. Make the most of New Zealand’s beautiful beaches and bush walks and let nature calm your mind. Another great form of exercise that effectively heals the mind and body is yoga. Yoga stretches, tones and soothes your body while replenishing your mind. You will leave feeling great!

Organisation

The more organised you are, the less you have to worry about. While smart phones and tablets can be a great way to stay organised, nothing is better than old school, handwritten ways of staying on top of things. Using cute stationary is an effective and fun way of organising your life. Keep a diary or calendar to remember appointments and important dates, and use folders to hold information for your job, finances, cars and other data. If you aren’t a list writer, now is the time to start! Lists aren’t just for groceries – if you have a very busy day ahead, jotting down each of the things you need to do (no matter how small – often it’s the smallest ones we forget) ensures you stay on track.

Shop

Yes, you read correctly – shopping! This doesn’t mean go on a spree and spend your whole pay check – that would only add stress. Treating yourself to one or two things now and then gives your happiness a boost and makes you feel great – this could be anything from clothes to books to plants. Of course, buying clothes that look amazing on is doubly good, because you feel happy when purchasing them, and even happier when wearing them! Having a shopping day with your girlfriends is the perfect way to forget about your busy life and have some fun.

Read, Write and Colour

Reading is a simple way to take some time out. Curl up with your favourite book and a cup of tea, or buy your favourite magazine when you’re doing your weekly shop. We can’t all look as glamorous as Audrey Hepburn while we’re reading, but we can certainly try! Writing is another therapeutic activity that is easy to do. While putting pen to paper isn’t for everyone, you should give it a try – write a letter to a friend living overseas, begin a journal or even try and write some poetry if you’re feeling creative! If neither of those sound like you, then colouring in is a must. Adult colouring is quickly sweeping the world, with books for adults lining the shelves of book stores everywhere. Colouring is proven to relieve stress and heal the mind – and its fun!

Spa

The ultimate relaxation and pampering for your body. It’s hard to surpass a good facial or massage when it comes to feeling calm and nourished. Make sure you select a company which uses only natural skincare products, so that your body is healed in the process. Going to the spa regularly can be pricey, so make your own face mask at home with oatmeal, honey, yoghurt and hot water.