For many people, relaxation is a low priority on the ‘to-do’ list. This may be the case if you are forced to rest a lot because of your chronic fatigue. You may think “I rest too much” or “I don’t get enough done”. As such, you may push yourself to do more whenever you feel able to. Rather than making time for relaxation, you may see it as a ‘distraction’ from your goals. However, as we mentioned above, rest is not the same as relaxation. Especially when the rest you’re getting is non-restorative. In the long run, unmanaged stress will take you further from your goals.
Taking time out to relax allows you to recharge, so that you can perform at your best when you need to. To use a metaphor, think about owning a car. If you run your car without taking care of it, it will eventually break down. However, if you give the car fuel, change the tyres, and service the engine, it’s likely to function well. In fact, it will get you from A to B faster and more efficiently. Our bodies and minds are no different, they need to be looked after in order to perform well.
Relaxation helps the body and mind regain balance and is linked to other benefits, including:
- Enhanced creativity
- Better sleep
- Lowered fatigue
- Improved immune functioning (less illness)
- Improved concentration and focus
- Improved learning and memory
- Improved mood
- Clarity in decision making
- Reduced muscle tension and chronic pain
- Reduced blood pressure
- Reduced anger and frustration
- Feelings of calm and wellbeing
As you can see, there’s a long list of reasons to prioritise relaxation! All of these benefits have flow on effects to other aspects of life, whether it be at work, in your studies, or in relationships. So next time you hesitate about taking some time out to relax, remember that you’re making a long-term investment in your health. Returning to the car metaphor, you need to fill up your own tank if you want to complete the journey of life comfortably and in good time.
