ask: How do you Recharge, Unwind, Re-Energize or Relax? Need Suggestions!

One of the things I like to do is hit the pool whether it's one the heated community pools maintained by my homeowners association or my own, for me, jumping in the water is the best way to unwind.

The best part is it costs nothing or next to nothing and helps me to burn off energy if I decide to swim. It can also be extremely relaxing if I just want to pull out our giant floater. Add a book (another great way to unwind) and I'm good for hours. (I slather on a ton of sunscreen, of course)

Also, I noticed when I chill out by watching television, I tend to want to reach for food. Not sure if you're a big television watcher but keeping it off is a great way (for me) not to gravitate toward the fridge.

There are so many good teas out there that taste good, are good for you & are filling (because you are hydrating yourself & filling your stomach). Reward yourself with some good tea, a good t.v. show, movie, or book.

I wish I had a pool to hit! Having grown up with one, I do miss being able to jump in at any time. Water is my source of rejuvenation, whether pool, lake, river or sea. Somehow, the tub just doesn't cut it.

So, lacking a pool, and tight on time, I either run or take a nap. Such extremes in activity, I know! But, I love my endorphins and I also love a cat nap. Both are recharging and relaxing in their own way.

Yes, the cat-nap! I do that too. I limit them to 10 or fifteen minutes so I don't feel groggy. At one particularly stressful workplace I napped during my lunch hour in my car. I even kept a tiny pillow in my backseat. One of my coworkers and I had a pact, if either of us did not return at the end of lunch we would call on our cell phones. She had napping down to a science, she had a pillow, fleece blanket and a travel alarm clock.

We both felt great for the afternoon.

I also walk, preferably in the woods. Being among trees is truly restoring. I try to do it every day.

Mary