Finding it hard to unwind and de-stress at home after a demanding day? Trying to juggle work, family, exercise and other commitments? Taking an hour or two each day to unwind cannot only help you relax and refocus but will rejuvenate your mind and leave you looking as fantastic as you feel. Here are five tips to help you unwind and de-stress from the comfort of your own home.

 Tip 1: Start Moving

After a long day, most people will opt for a seat in front of the television to relax, without realising that exercise is one of the best things to unwind and relieve stress. Keeping active, helps to release mood-boosting chemicals like endorphins, reducing anxiety and improving physical wellbeing.

 Tip 2: Just Breathe

When you’re feeling stressed, short on time and always in a hurry, stop   and take a deep breath. Stress can cause your breathing to become   rapid and so it’s important to introduce deep breathing techniques into   your routine. Taking deep breaths to slow your breathing will relax your mind, reduce the release of adrenalin in your body, and relax the skin; evening skin tone and redness.

 Tip 3:  Scents    

Enticing your senses at home can help you to unwind and indulge. Enjoy a bath with one of your favourite scented products or simply try burning a scented candle. Certain aromas can be energising and invigorating, while others are comforting and calming. Try a vanilla or chamomile scent if you’re feeling under stress and need to relax.

 Tip 4:  Pamper Yourself

One of the best ways to unwind is to treat you with a spot of pampering. If your budget allows, head to a day spa for a massage or facial. Alternatively, you can very simply recreate a day spa experience at home. Light a candle and run a bath, add a glass of sparkling wine, your favourite music and a facemask; you’ll feel like a whole new person.

 Tip 5:  Chocolate    

One of the world’s most favored sweets, chocolate is also a great calming food. High in magnesium to aid relaxation, chocolate also contains anandamine- a neurotransmitter that helps to produce feelings of elation and exhilaration. Chocolate stimulates the release of endorphins, promoting a sense of well-being and a feeling of pleasure.

Vicki Brent has been a consultant with The Body Shop At Home for 12 years.  During this time she has built a very successful and multi-million dollar business through the At Home party business.

For more information about joining The Body Shop At Home TM or holding your own ’pamper time’ please visit: http://www.thebodyshop.com.au/TheBodyShopAtHome.aspx