Finding Time to Relax (Even When You’re Always Busy)

Your idea of relaxation is up to you

Between work, responsibilities, and the never-ending to-do list, relaxation can feel like a luxury you can’t afford. But here’s the truth: if you don’t make time to relax, your body and mind will find ways to force it on you; Through burnout, stress, exhaustion, or even illness. For me, it was shingles at the age of 35.

So how do you actually find time to relax when your life feels packed?

Let’s break it down into something doable.

1. Redefine What Relaxation Looks Like

Relaxing doesn’t have to mean hours at a spa or a full weekend away. It can be:

• Sitting quietly for 10 minutes with a cup of tea or coffee

• Listening to music while you drive

• Saying “no” to something you don’t want to do (it’s ok to say, no)

• Taking a slow walk without your phone

  
  

Start seeing relaxation as moments, not marathons. Just a few minutes can do miracles.

2. Schedule It Like Anything Else

You schedule meetings, errands, and appointments. Why not schedule time for yourself?

Try this:

• Block 15–30 minutes daily for “quiet time”

• Set reminders for “stretch + breathe” breaks

• Choose one evening a week as your off-limits time (no work, no chores)

A moment to focus on nothing but your breathing can do wonders for your stress levels.

When scheduling the time, treat it like it matters--because it does.

3. Say No Without Guilt

One of the biggest reasons we feel overwhelmed is because we overcommit. Learn to protect your peace:

• “I’d love to, but I need some downtime tonight.”

• “I’m already at capacity this week.”

• “Let me check my schedule and get back to you.”

  
  

It is ok to say, no. Every time you say no to something that drains you, you say yes to your own well-being.

4. Use Transition Moments Wisely

Even on the busiest days, you have in-between moments. Use them.

• Waiting in line? Deep breaths, unclench your jaw.

• On a walk? Skip the podcast and enjoy silence.

• Driving? Listen to soothing music instead of stressful news.

  
  

You don’t need more time--you need to use small moments with intention.

5. Make It a Ritual, Not a Reward

Don’t wait until you’re completely drained to let yourself relax. Build it into your rhythm:

• Morning: a slow cup of coffee without multitasking

• Midday: a 5-minute reset stretch

• Evening: screen-free wind-down time

  
  

Relaxation should be part of your lifestyle, not something you "earn" by working to the point of collapse.

Final Thought

Breathing exercises can be as little as 30 seconds. Stretches can be just a few minutes a day. You can find a moment.

You are not a machine. Rest is not laziness--it's maintenance. You deserve time to breathe, to reset, and to simply be.

Start small. Find your rhythm. Reclaim your calm.