mahabis // national relaxation day

In light of National Relaxation Day, we thought we'd take some time to reflect on the importance of taking time out to relax, no matter how busy we are. We now live in a world that is always on the go, which makes it all the more important that we take the time to step back from it all. So why not start today. Put your mahabis on, feet up, and relax.

 photo: carl cerstrand

We say this often, but that's because it is true for many people: we don't spend enough time relaxing. Work, family and social commitments are all essential and fulfilling, but tend to fill up our days meaning that we barely get any time to indulge in ourselves and our own needs. And whilst it seems like there's a dedicated 'day' for everything, sometimes it takes that extra bit of encouragement to remind ourselves that me-time is a necessity, not a luxury. 

photo: evencki x mahabis

National Relaxation Day is a day that everyone can participate in. Even if you only manage to take fifteen minutes to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee without any distractions, you should be able to find time in your day to simply enjoy relaxing.  

But it isn't just about indulging in a little relaxation on this one day, however. It also serves to remind those of us with busy lifestyles that taking time to unwind shouldn’t be seen as a failure, or a break in productivity. Instead, it's essential, and helps us to recharge.   

Little things can make all of the difference. Whether it's taking inspiration from the Swedes and taking your coffee break away from your desk in a cosy café, or walking the last section of your commute to give yourself some headspace on a morning stroll... You may not be able to indulge in hours of me-time every single day, but National Relaxation Day is a great opportunity to try out some of these small changes to your everyday routine. 

In need of a little inspiration for how to take time to relax on National Relaxation Day? We spoke to a few of inspirational creatives about their downtime. Check out these snippets below, and continue reading our 'notes on downtime' series for more... 

 Jessica Wright // editor of Bon Traveler 

“Relaxation for me is found in the smaller moments. I have a hard time sitting still, so I try to find 15 minutes a few times a day just to be calm. These moments help me find balance and put the day in perspective. I’ll grab a cup of coffee, or just sit on the carpet and read a book. Being intentional during these times in the day helps me to relax.”

photos: instagram // @bontraveler

Rob Jones // photographer, traveller 

"Often photography is my downtime, because it provides a creative outlet outside of my work and gives me a fun way to explore new parts of a city too. Apart from that I love sitting in a cafe where the background noise and music all blends together, and I can get into the zone with a good book and a coffee."

photos: instagram // @robmuch 

Jessica Jungbauer // writer and photographer

“In striving for a slower lifestyle, cherishing downtime is a crucial part of my everyday life. Whether it’s unplugging an hour before bedtime or taking time off during the week after finishing a deadline – to know when your body is at its best and when it needs to rest was one of the key elements from the very first moment when setting up my freelance business.” 

photos: instagram // @jessicajungbauer

Want more? Head to our first instalment of "notes on downtime" for the full post...