Before the madness…

While COVID-19 put a different spin on the summer of 2020, it is still nice to take a day to relax before Distance Learning starts to monopolize our time and energy. That’s why National Relaxation Day (August 15) is so important.

Set aside some time to soothe your brain and your body on this day so that you can prevent getting overly tired or sick during the school year. Stress can affect people in many ways, but learning how to deal with stress is one way to win the battle.

There are lots of things that you can do on National Relaxation Day, things that will keep you healthy and can be your go-to stress busters. Each person’s idea of relaxation is different, but here are some ideas.

Start with stepping away from screens. People will demand your time on your phone, your computer, and your tablet, but give yourself something to do alone when things get too stressful.

Pick up a good book or turn to the kitchen and create a healthy meal. Take a walk in your neighborhood or at a local park. Drive out to the beach or play with your pet. Burn off some calories by going for a hike or jump in the pool and simply float. Just be sure to stay safe and practice social distancing when you are out where others congregate.

If you are thinking that National Relaxation Day sounds like a pretty official experience, keep in mind that it was suggested 35 years ago by a then-fourth-grader, Sean Moeller of Clio, Michigan, and it made history when it was introduced in the newspaper in 1985. Want to know more? Follow him on Twitter @SeanMoeller.