In a world that never stops spinning, where the pressure to be persistently and perpetually productive, is as constant as the rain in Manchester (trust us), finding ways to relax is a necessity.
But let’s not kid ourselves; we're not talking about some elaborate meditation routine that requires flexibility (both physical and mental). No! We’re talking about the joy of pure, unadulterated laziness. Here are our favourite ways to kick back, relax, and do absolutely nothing, because sometimes, that’s exactly what the doctor ordered. Probably not literally, but we're basically experts in this area…
1. the classic couch potato
Ah, the timeless allure of the sofa... It’s more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a sanctuary, a place you can trust. With its plush cushions and inviting embrace, it’s the ultimate symbol of relaxation. You don’t need much; a blanket, your favourite snacks, and the remote control. Whether you’re re-watching episodes of some new series, or getting lost in a new Netflix documentary about the mating habits of Mongolian Gerbils, the couch potato method is a tried-and-true way to unwind.
There’s a certain magic in finding the perfect position on the couch, whether that’s surrounded by a fortress of pillows, or a more minimalist style. You might even consider adopting the “couch-nest” technique: strategically placing everything you need within arm’s reach to avoid any unnecessary movement; your remote, snacks, drink, and maybe/definitely even a cheeky chocolate bar for emergencies. Who needs the gym when you can exercise your right to remain horizontal? Ha!
2. the lazy sunday lie-in
Is there anything more divine than a lazy Sunday morning spent in bed? The answer is a resounding no. There’s something magical about staying under the duvet, especially when you have nowhere to be. The world outside can wait while you enjoy those precious extra hours of sleep. And let’s not forget the joy of breakfast in bed – a messy, crumb-filled delight that’s worth every bite.
The beauty of a lazy lie-in is that it can extend well into the afternoon. Imagine the sheer bliss of rolling over, glancing at the clock, and realising you can drift back to sleep without a care in the world. Whether you’re snuggled up with a good book, browsing through your phone, or simply staring at the ceiling in peaceful contemplation, it’s a sanctuary from the demands of daily life.
3. the bath-time bliss
Now, this one does involve a bit of effort, but it’s worth it. Run a hot bath, throw in some bubbles, and light a few candles if you’re feeling fancy, but be careful, fire and laziness aren’t the best of friends… The bath is not just for washing away the dirt of the day; it’s for washing away your worries. Bring a book, a glass of wine, or just sit and soak until you turn into a human prune; it’s like being hugged by a warm cloud. Which sounds absolutely immense, by the way.
The key to a perfect bath is in the details. Choose your favourite bath bomb or bubble bath, put on some soothing music, and maybe even add a rubber duck for good measure. The trick is to stay in until you’re so relaxed, you’re practically a puddle yourself. It’s self-care at its finest, and no one can argue with the benefits of a good soak. So go ahead, make a you-soup! And if you have some toys, like battleships or something, then chuck ‘em in!
4. the midday nap
The midday nap is an underrated gem in the relaxation crown. It’s the perfect way to recharge without committing to a full night’s sleep, and is quintessentially lazy, the pinnacle of procrastination... Find a cosy spot, close your eyes, and let the world fade away for a bit. Whether it’s on your couch, in a hammock, or even sneakily at your desk (we won’t tell), a quick nap can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. We’ve totally never done that last one by the way. Never.
A nap isn’t just about resting your body; it’s about giving your mind a break too. The sweet spot is around 20-30 minutes, otherwise known as a power nap, just enough to feel refreshed but not groggy. Like, seriously, is there anything worse than that feeling after a nap?! If you can manage to nap with a pet snuggled up beside you, even better, bonus points if it’s not yours. There’s a reason why cats and dogs nap so much, they’re on to something!
5. the art of doing nothing
We live in a society that’s constantly on the go, but there’s a certain charm in just sitting and doing absolutely nothing. Find a comfy chair, preferably by a window, and just sit. No phone, no book, no distractions, just let your mind wander like a lost tourist in the British countryside. You’d be surprised at how refreshing it can be to just exist without an agenda. Also, at how many tourists get lost in the British countryside, it’s basically an epidemic…
Doing nothing is an art form that requires practice, it’s all about embracing the moment and letting go of the guilt that you should be doing something more productive. Watch the world go by, listen to the sounds around you, or simply enjoy the silence. It’s a form of meditation that doesn’t require any fancy techniques or training, just the willingness to let yourself be. It’s harder than it sounds though, so definitely practise a lot. Loads and Loads, in fact.
6. the lazy stroll
Now, don’t panic, we’re not suggesting anything too strenuous. It’s more of a leisurely meander, really. Head to your local park, or just got round the block a couple of times and take in the sights and sounds. Basically, just wander aimlessly. There’s no need to power-walk or break a sweat, this is about enjoying the moment, maybe feeding the ducks, or people-watching while you saunter along at a snail’s pace. If there is a bench along your route, then you get a sticker! Not really, but imagine it and give yourself a pat on the back.
The beauty of a lazy stroll is in its simplicity. There’s no rush, no destination in mind, just the act of walking for the sake of walking. Feel the grass under your feet, breathe in the fresh air, and let your thoughts drift. It’s a gentle reminder that not all movement needs to be purposeful; sometimes, it’s enough to just enjoy the journey. Poetic, right?
7. the digital detox
Sorry if this comes off as bossy, but… Turn off your phone. Seriously, do it. In this digital age, we’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, and updates. Give yourself a break and disconnect for a while. Read a book, play a board game, or just sit and do that thing, where we find a spot on the wall that feels REALLY nice, and stare at it. Don’t deny it, you know exactly what I’m talking about! You’ll be amazed at how much more relaxed you feel when you’re not constantly checking your phone every five minutes. If your sister also sends you constant TikTok videos, you might also have PTSD at this point whenever your phone vibrates. So, cut out the relaxation interruptions for a little while.
A digital detox doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Start small, maybe an hour or two without your devices. Use the time to reconnect with yourself, your family, or even nature. You might rediscover the joy of old hobbies or simply enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with being unplugged. It’s about finding balance and giving your mind a break from the constant barrage of information. Unplug yourself from the Matrix, man…
8. the mindless scroll
Okay, we know we just said to turn off your phone, but sometimes a bit of mindless scrolling is exactly what you need. Sorry to be such a hypocritical Helen… Head to Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube and let yourself fall down the rabbit hole of funny cat videos, DIY fails, and the endless stream of memes. It’s not about productivity; it’s about giving your brain a break and having a good old laugh. Even more bonus points for an actual “LOL”.
There’s a fine line between a digital detox and a mindless scroll, and finding the balance is key. Sometimes, all you need is a good chuckle to lift your spirits. Whether it’s watching someone’s cooking disaster or a compilation of the latest dance trends, let yourself be entertained. Just remember to put a time limit on it, or you might find yourself three hours deep into a video series on the history of cheese. True story.
9. the snack attack
Eating can be incredibly relaxing, especially when it involves your favourite comfort foods. Whether it’s a tub of ice cream, a packet of crisps, or a slice of cake, or multiples of any of these, indulge in a snack attack. Sit back, munch away, and savour every bite. If you combine this with the couch potato method, then it’s 10 points to Gryffindor! Or whatever house you belong to…
Snacking is more than just eating, it’s a sensory experience. The crunch of crisps, the smoothness of chocolate, the warmth of freshly baked cookies, each bite is a moment of pure joy. Don’t rush it; take the time to really enjoy your treats. Pair it with a good movie or a trashy TV show, and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening of relaxation.
10. the garden gander
If you have a garden, balcony, or even a small patch of grass, step outside and breathe in the fresh air, even if it’s not a space of your own, go public! Sit on a bench, a deckchair, or right on the ground; listen to the birds, feel the breeze, and maybe do a bit of lazy gardening (i.e., pulling up a weed or two before deciding it's too much effort and it’s hurting your back). Nature has a wonderful way of calming the mind and rejuvenating the spirit. For reals.
Gardening doesn’t have to be a backbreaking task though. Sometimes, just sitting among the flowers, watching the bees buzz around, is enough. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you might plant a few seeds or water the plants. But remember, this is about relaxation, not creating the next Chelsea Flower Show winner. Embrace the messiness and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors, and if anyone complains about your messy garden, then just say it’s a wildflower meadow, and it’s good for the bees… How do you like them apples, Janice? Sorry, I’m taking this too personally.
11. the teatime tranquillity
The British love affair with tea is well-documented, and for good reason. There’s something incredibly soothing about brewing a cup of tea and sipping it slowly. It’s partly about taking the time to enjoy the process, boil the kettle, steep the tea, and let the warmth of the cup bring a sense of calm. Pair it with a biscuit (or three), and you’ve got a perfect recipe for relaxation. If you’ve got an actual tea set then this is excellent, though extra washing up is never cool.
Teatime is a ritual that deserves to be savoured. Whether you prefer a strong builder’s brew or a delicate herbal infusion, take the time to enjoy each sip. Maybe invite a friend over for a chat or simply enjoy the solitude. Tea has a way of making everything feel a little bit better, and in those moments of tranquillity, all your worries seem to melt away. Like the hobnob you let soak a second or two too long… Ooops!
12. the pet cuddle
If you have a pet, you already have a built-in relaxation tool. There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a purring cat on your lap or a dog snuggled up next to you. Spend some quality time with your furry friend, give them a cuddle, and let their unconditional love melt away your stress. Plus, pets are known to have a calming effect, so it’s a win-win. If you don’t have one of your own, then why not either get one, or borrow one from a friend or family member?
Pets are masters of relaxation. Watch a cat stretch out in a sunbeam or a dog snooze contentedly by your side, and you’ll see what true relaxation looks like. Take a cue from them and let yourself unwind. Give your pet a gentle scratch behind the ears or a tummy rub, and enjoy the simple pleasure of their company. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest.
conclusion: embrace the lazy life
So, there we go! Our favourite ways to relax, and basically embrace the joy/art of doing nothing. In a world that’s always pushing us to do more, be more, and achieve more, it’s important to remember that sometimes, the best thing you can do is simply relax.
Whether it’s lounging on the couch, taking a lazy stroll, or indulging in a snack attack, give yourself permission to take it easy. After all, life’s too short to be serious all the time, and being serious is pretty sucky, I’m sure we can all agree.
Just try to find some time to chill, okay? You won’t regret it! And if you do, then there’s something very strange about you, very strange indeed… Until next time, Eve Sleep.
