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10 Awesome Ways to Celebrate National Relaxation Day

Between family vacations with in-laws, barbecues, and the craziness that comes with making the most of these summer months, you need a break. Enter National Relaxation Day! No, we didn’t make it up. Celebrated on August 15, it’s the perfect excuse to ditch your plans and take a day to chill out. Not sure how to celebrate relaxation? The last thing you need on National Relaxation day is more pressure, so here are 10 ideas to help you take a load off.

Stretch Out Your Favorite Morning Ritual

Coffee? Check. Newspaper? Check. Heading to work? Nope! Hang out at home and actually read the whole paper. Or catch up on your favorite magazines or that book you’ve been meaning to read. Today’s the day to make the time!

Sip Margaritas by the Pool

Pool

Take a staycation and book a night at a local hotel to really unwind and treat yourself. Or hit the pool at your local community center or friend’s backyard. Either way, hanging out poolside will really get you into the spirit of the holiday. Cool off in the afternoon by going for a dip, then blending some margaritas with seasonal fruit. Sip, relax, and repeat.

Go for a Stroll

Head out for a long walk, by yourself or with friends. Try out some new streets, or places you usually drive. You’ll be surprised how much you see and how clearheaded you feel after! For a complete break, try leaving your phone at home.

Enjoy Some Hammock Time

Hammock on the beach

Pack some beers and head to your favorite viewpoint to hang your hammock, take a nap, and relax in the shade. Wanna take things beyond your backyard? Check out these idyllic spots.

Go Fishing

The best thing about fishing? You basically have to do nothing—otherwise you’ll scare the fish away. Try casting a line from the shore, or rent a boat and float around in your closest lake or ocean.

Head to the Beach

Tropical beach

If you live within driving distance of the ocean, there’s no better way to relax than hitting the beach. Soak up some rays while listening to the crashing waves, or wade in for maximum refreshment. Got a pup in tow? Opt for a dog-friendly beach.

Go Tubing Down a River

If you’ve got no ocean but there’s a river in town, grab something that floats and head down. The sound of water moving is super zen and relaxing, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax as you float downstream.

Fire Up the BBQ

grilled-watermelon

Love cooking, but never have the time for it? Set the day aside to whip yourself up a gourmet feast. Even better, spend the afternoon outside and BBQ. Ever grilled oysters or watermelon? Try it! Then, sit back and enjoy the meal. You earned it.

Get Some Exercise

We know, it’s a little counter-intuitive. But yoga, running, and swimming are some of the best ways to calm the mind. Plus, it will tire your body out so you can relax for the rest of the day. If you prefer to be on the water, try kayaking or SUP—both awesome ways to get some exercise while also enjoying your surroundings.

Do Absolutely Nothing

Dog sleeping upside down on a bed

We promise, it still counts as celebrating. Don’t feel guilty for taking a day to stay home and just hang out. Call in sick and catch up on your favorite TV shows—no chores allowed. Heck, stay in your pajamas until noon and take a nap. Hang out with your pup! That’s what National Relaxation Day is all about.

This the best excuse to take a day for yourself—an actual holiday dedicated to just that! Make sure your August 15th is filled with naps, frosty drinks and a few chill activities that will keep you mellow for the rest of the summer.

Need a playlist for the day? Here’s the perfect poolside mix to put you in a Margaritaville state of mind.

Photos: soft_light / Shutterstock.com, Kateryna Mostova / Shutterstock.com, Vixit / Shutterstock.com, Unsplash, Jaromir Chalabala / Shutterstock.com