6 Restorative Ways To Make The Most Of Your Rest Day, Because You Deserve It
Even when you're knee-deep in the best workout groove of your life, hitting up SoulCycle every other day, and starting each morning with an energizing yoga routine, it's still crucial to fit the occasional rest day into your routine. If you've ever questioned whether rest days are actually important, trust me, they are. If you exercise regularly, you should definitely be dedicating at least one day a week to giving your hard-working bod a break, if not more.
In fact, some people go as far to say rest days are even more important than your most intense sweat sesh, because of all the muscle recovery and regeneration that can happen during that down time.
But a rest day doesn't necessarily mean you should just sit on your butt all day and sloth it out. Make the most of your rest days with one of these six activities, and celebrate your dedication to that gym grind.
1. Bike Ride With A Friend
Now, don't worry, I'm not talking about a sweat-infused spin class or the Tour de France, guys.
But hopping on a bike and casually pedaling it out with a friend can be a great way to get some fresh air and get your blood flowing.
2. Try A Meditation Class
Mental recovery is extremely important. After all, your muscles aren't the only part of your body getting a workout at the gym.
Studies show meditation reduces stress, increases empathy, and helps to clear a racing mind.
Try out a meditation class, or stay in the comfort of your home by downloading a guided meditation app.
3. Reap The Benefits of Restorative Yoga
A typical vinyasa class might not be the best idea for your day off because of how intense they can be, but restorative yoga is just right for optimal recovery.
Try out yin yoga for major relaxation, and say adios to any lingering aches and pains.
4. Treat Yourself To A Mini Spa Day
Invite your girlfriends over, whip up some face masks, and dig out your fuzziest robes.
Catching up with the people who make you laugh until your sides hurt and pampering your hard-working bod from head to toe? Who could say no to that?
5. Try Out A New Trail
Take a soothing stroll down a new trail to get your body moving and enjoy a healthy dose of vitamin D.
Regular walking is said to improve your mood and get your creative juices flowing -- a rest day well spent if you ask me!
6. Get A Massage (Or Try Self Myofascial Release)
If you're feeling like splurging, treat yourself to a deep-tissue massage (literal heaven).
But if you want to really dig into that tightness without breaking the bank, foam rolling is where it's at.
Self myofascial release increases blood flow to your muscles and gives you better mobility, all in the name of recovery and improved performance.
By the time you get back into the gym, you'll feel like you were absolutely born to slay your sweat sesh.
