Top Tips for Relaxation

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What does everyone do to unwind in a hurry? I'm in desperate need of some short bursts of time for me but all the things I used to do (read for two hours in silence, watch mindless videos, lie in bath for hours on end etc)aren't really doable these days. I'm thinking of yoga at home - can anyone recommend a really good uncheesy video?

I would recommend all the Pilates books or videos by Lynn Robinson. They have sections that you can do sitting at a desk, in the car etc depending on how much time you have.

I know what you mean Tel re: the reading. If there is one thing I miss (desperately) since my son was born, it is the space to read! As I get time to myself on a Saturday mornings I am likely to start using it for sitting in the library or a coffee house with a book!

The only solutions I have found for relaxing with a small baby in the house involves leaving the house! I go to a t'ai chi class (regularly), or I go for a swim (occassionally). When I need to relax and I can't get away from the baby I put him in his buggy and set out on a long walk... Furthermore, meditation is very good for short/instant relaxation and can be done any time anywhere.

I have been doing a yoga class for months which you take your baby along to and (hopefully!) they let you do some of the class and you just stop when they are crying and see to them. Maybe there is something similar around you?? I have found it wonderful and really look forward to it each week. Alternatively, you could do an evening class and pass your baby over to partner, etc, as this would really give you a chance to do something to unwind (difficult if you are breastfeeding though??). I did buy an Ali McGraw video years ago and remember it being quite good and amazing where she could get her legs considering she must be nearly twice my age! Hope you find something.

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