Identify a place that you’ve been that was very relaxing (e.g. a beach, the mountains). If needed, make one up.
List everything that you might see, hear, smell and (tactilely) feel in this special place.
Rate your current level of stress from “0” (not stressed) to “100” (very stressed).
Find a peaceful place to sit, close your eyes, take a deep breath in and breathe out slowly.
Try to imagine all the details that you listed in your mind’s eye, while periodically repeating the deep breathing.
After 5-10 minutes slowly open your eyes and re-rate your current level of stress. Notice how much more relaxed you feel.
If you have the time and can afford it, an even better idea is to actually go to a relaxing place and enjoy it. While beaches can be a challenge in Colorado, we have some of the most beautiful places to recreate in the country. Incredible campgrounds, cabins, lakes, mountains and hot springs, all within a few minutes to a few hours drive.
This is the perfect time of year where even over the course of a weekend, you can take a break from the usual grind and treat yourself to a chance to unplug, unwind, and renew.