Guilt-Free Healthy Indulgences to Relax and Rejuvenate You

Sharon Moore February 02, 2016

Feeling stressed? We all do every once in a while. In our ever busy world, taking some time off to relax and unwind is essential if you want to keep sane and healthy. And the great news is you don’t have to spend a fortune just to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body. Plus, there are healthier alternatives to what our usual stress-busters like pigging out and drinking all night.

Here are some great, guilt-free indulgences you can try each day to ward of stress.

Call a good friend.

Chatting with a friend over the phone is a great way to ease your worries and stress. You probably have gone too busy lately that you rarely had the opportunity to touch base with your friends. Now is the chance to do so. While personal interaction is always the best form of bonding, if you have little time or you are far away from your friends, calling them is a great alternative.

Sleep it off.

Dead tired? Turn off your computer. Drop all those pending tasks and treat yourself with some rejuvenating sleep or nap. Sleeping wards of fatigue symptoms and clear your mind. So when you wake up, you feel more refreshed than ever! Always prioritise sleep. Night-time sleep is essential in the repair and recovery of your body, from your skin down to your cells.

Move it, move it!

Oftentimes, we feel groggy and tired because we weren’t able to spend our excess energy. A healthy way to use your reserved fuels is to exercise. Working out has scientifically been proven to alleviate stress, promote emotional health, and improve your overall health. Simply walking around the neighbourhood, gardening, cleaning your house, and playing sport with your kids are already forms of exercise that can rejuvenate your mind and body. Just don’t forget to hydrate after. Excessive sweating causes dehydration, which drains your energy.

Nibble a piece of chocolate.

Just the word ‘chocolate’ already tickles our senses. It’s sweet, luscious taste and tempting aroma will surely take your stress away. Nibble an ounce of dark chocolate. It contains healthy compounds that lower blood pressure, increased blood flow, and improved "good" cholesterol.

Scent your room with lavender.

Aromatherapy improves your mood, energises your mind and body, and eases your stress away. Scenting your room with aromatic oils like lavender is a proven way to calm your mind and body. Dub a drop of lavender oil on your pillow for a deep and refreshing sleep.

Kiss your hubby.

Before you proceed to the next task, give your spouse a one big kiss! Not only does it make you burn some calories, kissing can also improve your mood, boost your immune system, and strengthen your bond with your partner.

Watch a funny film.

Have you seen the movie ‘White Chicks?’ If you are feeling stressed right now, this movie is a must-watch. Studies show that a really good laugh eases our stress, improve our mood, and stabilise our blood pressure. Just the anticipation of laughter can already lower down your stress levels.

Feeling stressed? Try out any of these ideas and you will surely feel so much more relaxed. And the best part is? They don’t cause a fortune! You’d be healthier too.