1. Start with a list. Make a list of all the relaxing things you love to do, but rarely take time for. Stuck for ideas? Here are some examples to get started. A massage, a nap, turn your blackberry off for three hours, read a book, an afternoon at a spa, an hour in your favorite park, a weekend away at a quiet cabin or bea

ch, watch two funny movies in a row, take a yoga class, do a guided meditation.

2. Pick one thing you can do in the next week. Pick something easy, enjoyable and affordable from your list.

3. Set aside time in your calendar. Make this an appointment that can’t be missed.

4. Give yourself permission. We rarely allow ourselves to slow down, perhaps for fear that if we do we could fall apart. Give this gift to yourself, and commit to doing it regularly. Keep adding to your list so you never run out of relaxing activities.