6 Simple Ways to Reset and Feel More Grounded: Relaxation Is a Skill (and Why It Matters)

Let’s be real: relaxing should be easy. But for most of us, it’s not. Between work, family, and constant notifications, downtime often looks like scrolling or Netflix—which can feel good in the moment, but doesn’t truly recharge us.

Here’s the thing: relaxation is a skill. And like any skill, it takes practice. The payoff? Better hormone balance, deeper sleep, lower cortisol, steadier digestion, and fewer sugar cravings. The goal isn’t “doing nothing”—it’s shifting your nervous system into rest-and-repair mode.

Why does this matter? Chronic stress keeps cortisol elevated, which throws off your cycle, sleep, metabolism, and even thyroid health. And stress doesn’t just fade once the chaos ends—you have to guide your body back to calm. That’s where intentional practices come in.

Here are six simple ways to reset your system and feel more grounded:

1️⃣ Take 10 Minutes to Just Be

Step outside without your phone. Sit on the porch, lay on the grass, or look out the window. Tune into your senses: the breeze, birdsong, sunlight. Ten minutes of “green time” can lower cortisol, reduce stress, and lift your mood.

2️⃣ Wind Down with a Magnesium Mocktail

Magnesium plays a big role in calming the brain, relaxing muscles, and supporting restful sleep. Try this evening sip:

✨ 8 oz filtered water or sparkling water✨ Splash of tart cherry juice (natural melatonin)✨ Squeeze of lemon✨ Optional: dash of sea salt for electrolytes or a scoop of magnesium powder

Stir, sip slowly, and let your body exhale.

3️⃣ Make a Joyful, Intentional Meal

Cooking can be grounding when done with presence. Put on music, light a candle, chop slowly, taste as you go. Treat it as a sensory ritual instead of a chore, and it becomes its own form of mindfulness.

4️⃣ Try the 4-7-8 Breath

When in doubt, breathe. This simple pattern activates your body’s relaxation switch:

✨ Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds✨ Hold for 7 seconds✨ Exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds✨ Repeat for 3–5 rounds

It’s quick, effective, and works especially well when you feel anxious or overstimulated.

5️⃣ Soak It All Away

A warm bath (or even a foot soak) eases muscle tension and encourages circulation. Add epsom salts for magnesium or a few drops of lavender oil for calming aromatherapy.

6️⃣ Read for Pleasure

Pick something light and enjoyable—a novel, poetry, even a magazine. Reading slows your breath, helps you focus, and improves sleep quality when done before bed.

The Bottom Line

Relaxation isn’t passive—it’s intentional. Small daily practices like breathwork, mindful meals, or a simple mocktail signal to your body that it’s safe to rest. Over time, those moments add up, helping you restore balance and feel more like yourself again.