Relaxing isn't that easy. Before getting into the nitty-gritty, Hammond explains that resting isn't the same as sleeping. Rest, according to her, is any activity that involves relaxation during wakefulness and can be something that requires some effort such as walk or meditate, or remain sedentary like sitting in a chair and letting your imagination run wild.
Where sleep and relaxation do have similarities is in their benefits, as both are equally important for physical and mental health. Scientific studies show that with proper daily breaks, people make better decisions. They have a lower risk of depression, improved memory, and greater protection against viruses and flu.
The basis of his book is the aforementioned study in which participants also selected the most efficient forms of rest. Hammond spent two years establishing the scientific evidence to show why reading, walking and doing nothing are among the top ten activities. However, what stands out are all the activities that didn't make the cut: gardening, walking the pet, spending time on social media or with friends and family. For Hammond, the most relaxing activities are those people do alone. “It seems like when you rest, all you want to do is escape from other people.”
We present the activities that most help you relax:
1. Spend time in nature
There is scientific evidence that people find balance when walking among trees or natural landscapes. This promotes relaxation, strengthens self-esteem and generates greater appreciation of the body. However, it is not yet known why this connection is so beneficial for rest . Many believe that being near trees helps people release their psychological burdens and even find solutions to their problems. Walking is known to be one of the most beneficial activities for mental health. But it seems to be better in those natural spaces than in a gym or on the street. In fact, evidence suggests that human-made parks and trails are better than wild natural settings, and that walking in repetitive landscapes, such as a tree-lined path, is more relaxing.
2. Being alone
One of the survey's surprises was the finding that people spend more time alone than in the company of family and friends. A 1997 study found that young people who spend time alone have positive experiences with solitude later in life. According to the author, this is because when alone, people clear their minds, focus, and think more deeply. But you shouldn't overdo it with solitude. It only takes a couple of hours to reap the benefits.
3. Listen to music
Some studies have revealed that music makes people feel a range of emotions. But the most important thing is its ability to put the individual into a heightened state of activity. The work showed that hostility, irritability and stress decrease after the music plays and the greatest effect is the increase in the capacity for inspiration.
4. A good walk
Walking is an easy, low-impact exercise that adapts to a person's schedule. It can also be done in many settings, including the office. Studies show that when people walk, their bodies relax. and "sends calming signals to the mind that will help reduce tension." This type of exercise also increases the level of hormones such as endorphins that reduce cortisol and adrenaline, precursors of stress.
5. Do nothing
Although it's one of the most beneficial ways to rest, it's the least practiced because of the misconception that it's equivalent to wasting time. Many people, in fact, often feel aimless when they're not doing anything. This is also because it's not an activity in itself, but rather a sedentary lifestyle. However, studies show that in these moments of total inactivity, the mind gives way to eureka moments. The brain relies on this downtime to recharge its batteries, process information, and reinforce learning. That's why we need to combat the idea that doing nothing is a waste of time.
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