How to create a retreat in your own space

Want to get away from the stresses of work? Need to relax and recuperate? Not interested in spending thousands of dollars on a wellness retreat?

Create a wellness retreat in your space specifically for rest and recuperation. The importance of rest and relaxation cannot be overemphasized, read more here about the long term effects of stress. By committing a part of your room to relax, unwind every day as part of your routine.

1. Find a comfortable spot

Choose a room or portion of a room that you can dedicate toward relaxation. It can be by a table, on the floor, or in your outdoor space.

Once you know where you want to set up, start decorating your space. Maybe add a pillow to make it more comfortable. Think about what you might need for your space when you start doing more relaxing activities. For example, you may want to have a pop-up tray or a small table nearby for resting tea or candles.

2. Choose activities

Think about what activities you'd like to incorporate in your spot. For the ideal relaxation space, would you want to:

Meditate

Learn how to meditate or continue your practice. Whether you're a newbie or someone who's been meditating a while, there are still benefits to including it every day. Mediation can help lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, and promote feelings of well-being.

Massage with a massage chair

Enjoy a shiatsu massage in your space. By unwinding physically, as well as mentally, you can create a more beneficial rest time.

Do yoga

Yoga is a practice, which means it gets easier every time you do it. Follow an online tutorial and grab your mat to begin flowing through your postures.

3. Select sensory additions

Light candles

Light a scented candle to promote relaxation. Scents to consider, include:
  • Lavender
  • Chamomile
  • Bergamot
  • Sandalwood
  • Mandarin
  • Jasmine
  • Vanilla
  • Rose
  • Ylang-ylang
The Huffington post recommends additional scents for feelings you want to achieve during your mindfulness sessions.

Sounds

What helps you relax? Is it white noise or simply being outdoors? Some additions you may want to include in your area are:
  • Fountain
  • Sounds of a water or nature
  • Noise-canceling headphones (if you prefer silence)

Tea

Having a warm cup of tea can be refreshing and relaxing at the end of a work day. By incorporating cup as part of your relaxation ritual, you can signal your body it's time to start relieving tension and beginning any relaxation activities like massage, meditation, or yoga.
Some teas that promote relaxation:
  • Chamomile tea
  • Spearmint tea
  • Lemon balm tea
  • Valerian tea
  • Lemongrass tea
  • Passion flower tea
  • Rose tea