Rest and recreation - some suggestions.

Take time off for rest and recreation in the midst of running your day or your career. The trouble is some people rest too much and too long.

The key is to rest just enough to gain back your energy and then get back to do rewarding things with your life.

Taking a break or time off means giving time to refresh your mind and body from the struggle and stress that accompany your daily chores and activities.

How to get rest and recreation.

• Have a good night sleep.

A good night sleep is the best remedy to avoid fatigue. Lack of sleep can worsen stress.

It is not about how many hours you sleep but it is getting the right amount of rest. If you want to know whether you are getting enough, check if you find yourself sleepy during the day.

If you encounter sleeping disorder, check your daily habits and change them.

• Take a short nap in between your day.

Taking a nap is different from sleeping. A "cat nap" in between your busy schedules rejuvenate your mind and body.

You can use your lunch break, when your children are off to school or while you are traveling on a public transport.

The brief "forty winks" will refresh you and improve your productivity.

• Have fun spending time with your children and spouse.

To live a balance life, you need to have time with your children and spouse. You can spend your evenings in the garden, tending to plants or taking walks.

On weekends, you can enjoy rest and recreation time by bringing the family for a picnic or a family outing. Go angling or fishing with your kinds. If you are more adventurous, go hiking or mountain trekking.

Going to the bar to join the gang after work is not part of rest and recreation. Many health problems arise from consuming alcohol.

• Do something you love that takes you away from your routines.

If you love to read then put aside some time to do that. If you are more inclined to enjoy playing any kind of musical instrument, allocate the time for it. Watching television is not a recommended activity.

• Practice relaxation techniques to soothe your mind and your body.

Listening to guided imagery tapes will put you into a relaxed mode. All exercises that involved focused breathing are recommended to give you the needed quietness of mind.

The Silva Method is the most popular relaxation method that you can practice.

• Play games and involve yourself in sporting activities.

There are many sports activities and games that you can participate. You can get into the game of golf or join any water sports activities like scuba diving, canoeing and sailing.

Spending your leisure time doing things you enjoy and stimulating are healthy activities that lead to better creativity and productivity.

Rest and recreation are necessary regardless of how busy you are with your business and life. The key is to learn to manage yourself and use your time wisely. Invest a little time to relax your body and mind and you will get back to your activities with vitality and high energy.

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