You deserve a break. At times, life can be engulfing and chaotic. When school, a job, relationships, family, sports or taking part in other things you enjoy come into play, it can be a little stressful to try to maintain an even balance.

Sometimes, breaking down or stressing yourself out may seem like the best “solution” when your world is overwhelming. Although, the best you can possibly do is to take a break. You may be saying to yourself, “but I have no time to take a break” or “I don’t even know what to do if I take a break”, these are common things we say to ourselves when we are overwhelmed with the situation on hand. All you need is thirty minutes to yourself to feel more balanced and in control of your world.

Whether you are super overwhelmed or just need an idea for a break, here are a few things to try:

You are only one person: This isn’t much of something to try however a friendly reminder. Remember that your physical, mental and emotional health is far more important than what you are overwhelmed with. You are only one person and you can only accomplish so much. Take things on one at a time and do only as much as you can handle. You cannot focus all your time and energy into things that are giving you stress; you need to take time for yourself.

Remember this is only temporary: Being in an overwhelming part of your life or situation, can seem like it is going to last forever. This is not true. Although you have a lot on your plate right now, try to remember that this is only temporary and will be over sooner than you know it. This too shall pass.

Breathe: Find a quiet, empty room to go into. Sit or lay down on the ground and take deep breaths. Focus on your breathing by breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. This helps you to calm down and to be truly present. You are able to focus on your current state and allow the stress out. Turning the lights off, lighting a candle or turning on a lamp, listening to some soft music or being in still silence may contribute to relaxation as well.

Spend time with a friend: Friends are great to turn to when you need to take a break or relax. Spending time with them can help you forget about everything that is going on at the moment. Even if it is just for a couple of hours, friends are a great way to cheer yourself up and to take time away from your stressors.

Dance: What song makes you want to break out into dance and sing your heart out? Put that song on and do just that. Taking a dance break can certainly make you happier and take some of the stress out.

Do something you enjoy: Pick up something you haven’t done in a while whether it’s working out, writing, reading, watching a movie, swimming, going for a walk, or even simply watching a funny YouTube video. It’s hard to take time for yourself when your life seems overwhelming. Taking thirty minutes to an hour out of your day to dedicate it to doing something you enjoy, can make your day a little less stressful and hectic.

Go outside: It may be daunting to go outside on a cold, wintery day or during the hot summer, however, going outside may just be your best bet. If you have been held up inside for a while, it can definitely be a good thing to go outside for a little while. It gives you the feeling of freedom and gives you a breath of fresh air, literally. Even going for a walk around the block to give yourself a break, can bring you back feeling energized and better than before.

Your world might seem overwhelming at the moment but take thirty minutes to yourself. However, what way you choose to take a break,that is up to you.

 Written By Leah Butler