In today's society finding an escape from a hectic schedule or day to day life can seem difficult or even impossible. We are bombarded with pressures, expectations, and opinions that consume our dreams of travelling and experiencing different things. To do these beautiful and memorable activities they are timely and costly, this means we become fixated with earning a certain amount of money by working more hours, which then causes stress and no time to even take that well-deserved break that was the goal and cause of this tedious cycle. Taking time for ourselves is taken for granted so frequently, our minds are consumed by everything going on around us by not ever the most important thing of all … ourselves. Making time for what is important within your personal lives doesn't have to be expensive or Instagram worthy, it has to be peaceful and something that will give you an outlet that day to day life doesn't. Escaping and taking a break will give you a boost of energy and also give you a clear and fresh mind-set. It doesn't have to be anything fancy and miles away but everyone does need something to look forward too.
1. Spa day
When you have a busy schedule and you feel like there aren't enough hours in the day pampering yourself is something of a distant memory. A day at the spa will put your body, mind, and soul at ease. I know a Spa day sounds like something expensive but trust me 'Wowcher’, ‘Virgin Experience Days’ and ‘Groupon’ will be your new best friends. You will be able to find an amazing deal at a lavish spa without having to leave London. Take a day out with your friend or on your own and get that peace of mind and TLC you need.
2. Bottle of wine and movie night with the girls
Sounds simple, right? A night in with the company of your best friends and a nice bottle of wine can solve everything the majority of the time. If you feel like work consumes your life, then this is exactly the way to escape without actually escaping. Friends and family are the most important aspect of life and taking time to cherish them and a drink or two is never not needed. A night like this will distract you from your worries, make you laugh and show you what is actually important in life because that sometimes can be forgotten in the mayhem and expectations that life throws at us.
3. Skill Classes
Sometimes in life there are skills or hobbies that you have always wanted to try but you never seem to get round to doing them, this could be playing an instrument, painting/ drawing or learning how to cook. All over London, there are multiple classes that allow you to master that skill that has never made it off your new year’s resolution list. You can go once a week or once a month whatever fits best into your life. These types of classes will allow you to achieve something personal, meet new people and give you something to look forward to.
4. A Night away without leaving the city
I know this might sound crazy and a waste of money when you already have somewhere to stay free of charge, but its actually genius. Work, housework, noisy next-door neighbours and flatmates can cause a lot of stress at times. Everyone needs a break but it can be difficult to get time off work or you simply cannot afford to take time off at all. This idea allows you to be in a new environment away from your everyday surroundings, it also gives you the alone time and space you need in luxury but without actually having to leave the city or taking time off work.
5. City break
One of the many great things about London is that it's the best location to travel to a city break from. In London, we are lucky enough to be close to some of the most amazing and beautiful city's in England and also able to get to them at an affordable price. A city break is a perfect way to get away and clear your head from the stress of day to day life. A two-day break or even three days if you fancy will give you the chance to explore, relax and enjoy a new environment. With many beautiful cities to choose from it would be rude not to.
. Amsterdam
. Prague
. Edinburgh
. Manchester
. Canterbury
. Bristol
. Brighton
. Chester
. York
. Durham
. Budapest
. Plymouth
6. Glamping
If camping isn’t exactly what you call your idea of fun but the countryside is then glamping is the perfect treat for you. Enjoy the fresh air, campfires, long walks, a break from technology and the hustle and bustle of the city. This isn't just your ordinary camping trip, enjoy all the perks of the outdoors but in the comfort of a luxurious and glamour's tent, cabin, treehouse, tipi, yurt or pod whichever is the best fit for you. With thousands of glamping detentions all over the UK, it is perfect way to take that well-deserved break you have been longing for without having to travel too far.
7. Me, myself and I
If taking a trip away does not fit into your work or life schedule right now do not let that stop yourself from making time to get that all-important relaxation you need. Everyone deserves and needs time to switch off every now and again, people think an expensive trip is the only way to do that but in reality, that option isn't always the most realistic. Making time for you can be simple. Instead of saying yes to all these different plans and events spend a night in on your own. Spend a night in the comfort of your own home, turn your phone off to ensure as much stress as possible is blocked out, have a nice glass of wine and indulge in favourite movie or book. This simple act is often taken for granted but it is actually the most affordable and convenient way to clear your head and unwind.
Infographic by Emily Boorman
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