How to Enjoy National Relaxation Day Outdoors
Posted by Fortunoff Backyard Store
Kick your feet up.
Thirty-seven years ago, a nine-year-old boy from Michigan decided there should be a holiday dedicated to relaxing, and the rest of America agreed. So relax. Take it slow. You can even take a nap. August 15th marks National Relaxation Day, and to help you prepare for this much-needed holiday, we did a little research on the best ways to celebrate. Here are a few science-backed tips for finding your zen:
Tip 1: Spend Some Time Outdoors
Grab a chaise lounge and put away your umbrella because five to fifteen minutes of direct sunlight is shown to have positive (and relaxing) effects on your brain. The National Center for Biological Information found that sunlight increases your brain’s serotonin output, and serotonin is known for its calming and mood-boosting effects. So get outside and enjoy the sun. Your brain will thank you for it.
Tip 2: Skip Your Workout
Exercise is stressful on your body. It’s how you build muscle and improve your endurance, but stress isn’t the priority on National Relaxation Day. According to the American Council on Exercise, a rest day can improve your physical performance in the long run. It allows you to recover from soreness, repair damaged muscles, prevent injuries, and capitalize on the endorphins you get from working out. You can’t build abs in a day, so on August 15th, relax and start refreshed tomorrow.
Tip 3: Tend Your Garden
Working in dirt has many therapeutic benefits, but even spending time near plants has been shown to reduce stress. WebMD cites gardening as an excellent way to improve your mood, build confidence, and increase your attention span. Couple some light planting with sunlight, and you’re on track for a peaceful day.
Tip 4: Pet a Dog
Working in dirt has many therapeutic benefits, but even spending time near plants has been shown to reduce stress. WebMD cites gardening as an excellent way to improve your mood, build confidence, and increase your attention span. Couple some light planting with sunlight, and you’re on track for a peaceful day.
DID YOU KNOW:
Every year on National Relaxation Day, Sean Moeller recognizes the laziest person of the year. Sounds like our kind of accomplishment.
Tip 5: Prioritize Comfort
When it comes to relaxing, comfort levels are key. Everyone has a perfect chair in mind. For some, it’s a high-back chair with lots of spine support. For others, it’s an overstuffed patio sofa. However you like to relax, Fortunoff Backyard Store has what you need to make the most out of your holiday.
Shop today to get your outdoor furniture delivered by August 15th, and let us know how these tips worked for you by tagging us on social media. Use hashtag #fortunoffbys for a chance to be featured. If you’re looking for more outdoor style tips, subscribe to our newsletter. We always stay on top of patio trends.
