Small Rituals to Help You Slow Down
Simple ways to make time for relaxation, gentle movement and everyday wellbeing.
Finding calm in the everyday
Our daily lives can become very busy, with work, family commitments and responsibilities often taking priority over our own wellbeing.
It is easy to carry on from one task to another without allowing ourselves time to rest.
Taking time for relaxation is an important part of looking after our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Even short periods of conscious breathing, gentle movement or quiet reflection can be beneficial when practised regularly.
There are several simple ways to introduce these moments into your day. You may already be familiar with some of them, while others might be worth exploring.
Begin the day with conscious breathing
Before starting your daily activities, try allowing yourself a few minutes to sit quietly and become aware of your breathing.
Find a comfortable position, with your shoulders relaxed and your feet resting on the floor if you are sitting in a chair.
Breathe naturally, paying attention to each inhalation and exhalation. You do not need to change the rhythm of your breathing or make any particular effort.
If your attention wanders towards the things you need to do, gently bring it back to your breath.
This simple practice can help you become more aware of your body and give you a quiet beginning to the day.
Conscious breathing can also be practised at other times, particularly when you feel you would benefit from a short period of relaxation.
Explore more about breathing, mindfulness and relaxation on my Yoga, Movement & Relaxation page.
Introduce gentle movement into your routine
Movement is another important aspect of maintaining our general health and wellbeing.
Practices such as yoga, Qigong and Tai Chi combine physical movement with awareness of breathing, posture and balance. They can be adapted to suit different levels of experience and physical ability.
You may prefer to begin with some gentle stretching, a short walk or a few comfortable movements to ease stiffness after sitting for long periods.
The aim is to move within your own comfortable range, paying attention to how your body responds rather than trying to achieve a particular position.
Here in Tenerife, the climate also gives us many opportunities to enjoy walking and gentle exercise outdoors.
If you are new to yoga or another movement practice, appropriate guidance can help you learn the techniques safely and develop your confidence.
My yoga and movement classes include different approaches to gentle exercise, with options for individual needs and levels of mobility.
Make time for relaxation during the day
Relaxation is something we can learn and practise.
When we are occupied with work or other responsibilities, we may not always notice the physical tension that develops throughout the day.
Take a few minutes to sit comfortably and become aware of your posture. Notice whether you are holding tension in your shoulders, neck, jaw or hands.
Allow these areas to relax where possible, without forcing any movement.
You might find it helpful to close your eyes, listen to some quiet music or simply rest without any other distractions.
Mindfulness and meditation are also useful practices to explore. They encourage us to pay attention to the present moment and become more aware of our thoughts, feelings and physical sensations.
There is no need to begin with a lengthy meditation. A short, regular practice may be easier to maintain and can gradually become part of your normal routine.
For more ideas on incorporating rest, movement and healthy habits into daily life, read Healthy Living and Holistic Wellbeing.
Give your skin some attention
Our daily skincare routine provides another opportunity to spend a little time caring for ourselves.
Cleansing and moisturising are important parts of maintaining healthy skin, and these simple activities need not be rushed.
When applying your usual skincare products, use gentle movements and avoid unnecessary pressure or pulling on the skin.
Facial massage can also be incorporated into a skincare routine when suitable for your skin and individual circumstances.
Techniques such as facial acupressure and Gua Sha require an understanding of the correct movements and appropriate pressure. If you are interested in learning these practices, professional guidance is advisable.
Choosing products suited to your skin is equally important, particularly if you experience sensitivity or have an existing skin condition.
You can learn more about facial massage, natural skincare and the techniques I use on my Holistic Beauty & Self-Care page.
Cleanse
Choose a gentle cleanser suited to your skin.
Moisturise
Apply with gentle, comfortable movements.
Facial massage
Learn appropriate techniques and pressure before practising at home.
Allow yourself time to unwind in the evening
After a busy day, it can be helpful to establish a regular period of relaxation before going to bed.
You may enjoy reading, listening to music, taking a warm bath or practising some gentle breathing exercises.
Some people find that meditation or relaxation techniques help them settle after the activities of the day.
Try choosing an activity that you find comfortable and enjoyable, and allow yourself sufficient time without feeling that you need to rush.
It may also help to reduce unnecessary distractions and create a peaceful environment where you can relax.
A regular evening routine can support healthy sleep habits, although everyone has different needs and preferences.
Your evening ritual
Choose the activities that appeal to you.
Select an activity to make your list.
Finding a routine that suits you
We all have different lifestyles, responsibilities and individual needs. What works well for one person may not necessarily be suitable for another.
You may enjoy the physical movement of yoga or Tai Chi, prefer the stillness of meditation, or find relaxation through spending time outdoors.
There is no need to introduce several new practices at once.
Begin with something that interests you and feels manageable. As you become more familiar with it, you can decide whether you would like to explore other approaches.
At M Holistic Therapies, my approach to natural health and wellbeing includes holistic therapies, relaxation practices and yoga-based classes, with consideration for each person’s individual needs.
If you would like to learn more about these practices or discuss which may be suitable for you, please get in touch.
Get in touch with MichelleMichelle Bauduin
M Holistic Therapies, Tenerife