5 tips to relax and switch off

If you're anything like me, you run at 100 mph and constantly have something or another swirling around in your head. I have a very busy job - not that I'm complaining as I like to keep to be kept on my toes - and often don't get indoors until just 7.45pm. Sometimes I have events in the evening and weekends to attend to as well. Then there's always something I have to do whether it's blogging - certainly not a chore! - , ebaying, life admin or running round to see people. Like the old lady I am, I like to be in bed for 10 so it's very rush rush rush. I never really have time to switch off and relax. Something my sanity is beginning to get annoyed with. I've tried to make a conscious effort to step back and put things on hold to try and get some 'me' time. It's good for the soul!

1. Read a book.
The classic way to shut out the world and forget about everything in your life is to open a good book. It's so easy to lose yourself in someone else's world for 30 minutes or so. There are so many great books out to pick up and it's a great way to keep your brain ticking over. Sometimes we all get too wrapped up in work and forget to enjoy the simple things in life. More the often the book is much better than the film so pick it up first to read!

2. Bake a cake.
I personally find baking to be really therapeutic and relaxing. There's nothing I love more than getting my bake on. It doesn't have to be anything elaborate and you'll have plenty of time to fit it in during the evening - a classic Victoria Sponge is my favourite to make. Always a winner! It hardly takes any time at all to whip up and whilst it's cooking for 30 minutes you can veg out like broccoli (ten points if you get the movie reference) in front of the telly. Then cut the cake and veg out some more! You'll get lots of brownie points if you take it into work for your colleagues!

3. Slob out in front of Netflix.
Netflix has to be up there with one of the best adventures in the world. There's so many different films, documentaries and series on there to keep you occupied for hours. Even if you've only got half an hour to spare before you want to switch your light out, there's always something to catch you eye. I know a lot of people say telly isn't a good thing before bed but it helps me. Sometimes I nod off before something has almost finished. If you don't have Netflix, pop on your favourite DVD and remember exactly why you love it so much!

4. Experiment in the kitchen.
Like I mentioned before I find cooking very relaxing. I get such pleasure out of following a recipe and actually making something edible to eat. It's a great way to keep your mind fresh and you tend to forget about everything else as you're concentrating on following instructions. There are plenty of good books out that specialise in quick and simple meals so it won't take up your whole evening. If you're feeling adventurous, why not try and make a recipe up yourself?

5. Pamper yourself.
After a long day at work, nothing feels better then giving yourself some TLC. Paint your nails, pop on a face mask, have a bubble bath or put on your expensive special cleanser on your face as a treat. It's important to look after yourself as you only get one body! You don't want your stress starting to appear on your face do you now?!

So tell me, what do you do to switch off?