Hopefully most of you are currently enjoying your summer break, but it can be difficult to actually relax and take some time out in the midst of all of the festivities, catch ups, and general busy-ness. Here are some great ways to make the most of your break and come back refreshed (and for those who are working through, maybe you can incorporate some of these in your downtime!).
Get some fresh air
We’re lucky enough as Kiwis to have our holiday break in summer when most of us do spend a good portion of our time outside. It’s important to make sure you’re getting enough (but not too much!) sun, and you’re getting some good clean fresh air. Join the kids at the park, or take your family on a picnic at the beach, whatever works! Just make sure you spend part of every day outside in nature, even if it’s not the best weather, as this will work wonders for your physical and mental health.
Plan some activities
After all of the hustle and bustle of Christmas, you might just want to lie on the couch doing nothing for a week - and that’s fine! But this can often make you feel more lethargic and makes it a lot harder to get back into the swing of things once your break is over. Whilst it’s important to get some downtime in, make sure you do plan one or two fun activities during your break to get you up and about - even better if they’re ones that get the blood pumping like some beach volleyball or even going bowling with some friends.
Take some time for you
Here’s the downtime part - it’s all about balance, right? So make sure you take some time out to have a nap or read a book, or whatever you like to do that relaxes you. Spend an hour or two every day out in the garden reading, or catching up on your favourite TV show. Hopefully you can get some alone time away from everyone, but if you can’t, set a time each day where it’s ‘quiet time’ for everyone and that way you all can benefit!
Enjoy some quality family time
As much as we might lose our patience with members of our family when they’re around a lot more, it’s important to get some good quality time with them, especially if you don’t see them very often. You’d be surprised at what you can learn from each and every member of the family if you just take the time to sit down and ask questions or advice. Everyone has something to offer, and even if it might not come across in the best way, you’ll likely learn something from it!
Happy holidays everyone!