Taking a mental health day is often the best thing you can do when you have become over-stressed and feeling physically drained. It is a day to yourself, and it is a way to relax and recover from the chaos that we all call life.
Twenty-first-century living requires people to be active and accessible around the clock. Even while we are sleeping, email messages arrive in our boxes telling us that our bank statements are ready to be viewed, reminding us of business and personal appointments, as well as other posts that will require our immediate attention. Most adults are juggling careers, maintaining a home, managing a family, balancing a budget, and participating in their communities. It can become overwhelming. Occasionally a mental health day is necessary to maintain peace of mind so that we can continue to run the business of life.
Things To Do On A Mental Health Day
• Read A Real Book. No computer-generated images; you need to hold a real book. Reading an e-book makes it too tempting to stop reading and start browsing the Internet or checking email messages or other business online. You need to unplug and unwind.
• Go Sightseeing. If you live in a large city like New York, Chicago or Houston there are probably many major attractions that you have not seen. Many of the larger hotel chains like HVMG in Houston will even arrange for sightseeing tours for you. Take this opportunity to learn about the history of your city.
• Go To A Museum. If you love museums, spend the day exploring your favorite, or find one that you have not visited. Take your time and enjoy each exhibit.
• Spa Day. Book a suite at a luxurious hotel and spend the day getting pampered. Get a massage, have a facial, manicure, pedicure and have your hair and makeup done by a professional. At the end of the day enjoy a gourmet meal at a five-star restaurant.
• Go To The Beach. There is a lot to be said about spending the day at the beach. While you should not overdo the sunshine, taking in the view of the blues sky reflecting off the water, breathing the fresh ocean air and listening to sounds of waves hitting the water will actually make you feel better. Additionally, sunshine raises Vitamin D levels which gives you a sense of happiness.
• Visit A Friend. Take some time to visit someone, family or friend, that you have not seen in a while. Go out to lunch or dinner. Spend the day talking and reminiscing. Enjoy each other’s company without interruption.
• Go For A Long Drive. For some people, the open road is the best place that they can relax and recover from stress. Something about the drive itself makes them feel calm and ready to take on life again when they return.
• Pajamas and Ice Cream. Allow yourself to lounge around the house all day in your pajamas doing exactly what you want to do and nothing else. End the day with a good movie and a bowl of ice cream. You will be amazed at what this will do for our well-being.
Mental health days are necessary to keep balance and harmony in your life. Sometimes you have to step back from all of the hustle and bustle and allow yourself to be free. Consider a mental health day a reward for all of your hard work and an incentive to work harder in the future.