5 Ways to Slow Down and Relax from NYC Life

Living In New York City has it's upsides but sometimes it can get hectic and we need to take a break. Everyday is a busy day in NYC but by practicing some of these ways to relax and slow down the days might go a little slower, even if it is just for a few minutes.

1. Put the Phone Down for a While

Electronics are known for grabbing our attention sometimes longer than they should. It is so easy to get wrapped up in a message, or a video but at the end of a long day it is important to unwind after all the craziness of NYC. After coming home put the phone in an area of your living space that you don’t gravitate towards and try to consciously stay off of it. Now there is more time to relax and spend time on a different activity such as cooking, reading, exercising, or just catching up with a friend or significant other.

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2. Add Exercise into the Day

Although exercising is not always the easiest to add into the day try to find an activity that helps you feel good! It could be taking a stroll down the street in Forest Hills just to enjoy being outside or trying a new activity like yoga. This allows one to slow down and reflect. Exercise is known to be beneficial to a persons mood and overall well being. When you exercise the brain releases endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. Together this helps you feel good and your muscles will relax deeper. If the idea of using exercise as a way to slow down seems unappealing try the cute yoga place called Zen and Yoga on Continental Avenue.

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3. Set the Alarm One Hour Earlier

Go to bed earlier and set your alarm an hour before you would usually wake up! This way you can train your body to relax so you can wake up to get things accomplished before the day starts.People who wake up earlier are usually better planners, and are more optimistic. The more time they have in the morning, the better they can organize and slowly ease into their daily activities. In the early morning you can make this your “me time”. This will help jump start the busy day ahead.

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4. Try a New Beverage like Lavender Tea.

Treat yourself to a new flavor and experience. This may seem like something very small but it is a way to open and calm your mind; especially that it’s tea. If tea is not favorable try any new beverage; just make sure a few minutes are taken to enjoy it. A suggestion for the locals in Forest Hills is to stop into Martha’s Countryside Bakery for a great chai-tea latte.

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5. Pamper Yourself!

Lastly a hot shower at the end of the day washes away the busy tasks and thoughts for a few minutes. Blast your favorite music on while showering and don't be afraid to sing along. To top it off after, light a candle, use a face mask and put on a seasonal hand cream from Bath and Body to make the end of the night even better. Taking care of your body and mind at the end of the night is the perfect way to slow down.

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