What are the origins of this fun-filled festive custom?
Think of small spaces like a hall closet, your refrigerator, a drawer in your bedroom, your car, or even your desk. These spaces often collect trash and clutter and in thirty minutes or less, you can start (and possibly finish) cleaning them out.
Have you been meaning to floss more lately? Or perhaps you’ve wanted to read a new book that’s been gathering dust on your shelf? Whatever the habit, just dive in! Flossing your teeth, for example, takes less than a minute but will positively impact your life. Taking a 20 or 30-minute break from screens and noise to read a book will also benefit your mental health.
It’s important to challenge your mind constantly. In only a minute or two you can even look up fun facts online or research a topic of your choosing. Continue to learn every day to maintain cognitive health as you age.
Meditation is a great (and quick) way to relieve stress and anxiety from our busy, chaotic days. Turn on the sounds of rain or waves, close your eyes, focus your thoughts, and let the problems melt away. Meditation can be done for as little or as long as you like.
Release tension in your hands and body by giving yourself a massage. It can be simple and only take a minute or two but can make a big difference in how you feel.
Detach from your phone, computer, tablet, and other electronic devices, whether for five minutes or thirty. Take time to simply exist and focus on your day. Disconnecting from everyone and everything else can help bring you clarity and peace.
Get your body up and moving and your blood circulating while enjoying your favorite tunes. Whether it’s finding a new musical artist or listening to an old favorite, music can put a smile on your face and a pep in your step!
Nature can bring a calming sensation into our days. Try and walk in a nearby park or wooded area to get the maximum benefit. Focus on the beautiful sky, the peaceful noises, and the way animals exist around you. Be mindful during your walk and appreciate the nature around you.
Stopping to read some short articles or blog posts will help keep your mind engaged and challenged. Keep yourself sharp and always learning.
Expend some energy and get in a short workout. Whether you use some free weights at home or step outside and do some jumping jacks, exercise will help get your blood flowing and release stress.
Nourish your body and mind with a quick, delicious dish. Whip up a veggie stir-fry or throw together a balanced salad—small steps toward a healthier you start in the kitchen!
Is your workspace a bit chaotic? A tidy environment promotes clear thinking. Dedicate a half hour to declutter and organize—you'll be surprised by the boost in productivity!
Mornings can be a scramble filled with different tasks and to/do items. Save time and avoid decision fatigue by planning your outfit the night before. A little planning goes a long way for a smooth and confident start to your day.
Don't let your dirty laundry pile up—tackle a small load during your free time. A clean wardrobe means you'll always have something to wear, reducing stress and saving time in the long run.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by emails try dedicating 30 minutes to clear out old messages and unsubscribe from unnecessary lists. A clutter-free inbox equals a calmer, more focused you.
Visualization will help you take lofty goals and break them down into smaller pieces. Break for 10 to 15 minutes and just imagine yourself living a life where your goals are a reality.
A good to-do list can save you a lot of time in the long run. Each day, stop and spend even just five minutes planning out the next day. This proactive task will help you accomplish more.
Deep breathing promotes calmness and relaxation. Take a short break and focus on your breathing. Pro-tip: breathing through your nose has many significant health benefits. So, when you’re breathing deep, use your nose only.
For a room refresh in under 30 minutes, grab a laundry basket and start to declutter! Toss dirty clothes, put away stray items, and make your bed for an instant transformation.
Expressing gratitude is a gift that takes less than five minutes. Pull out a notecard, write a heartfelt sentence thanking someone, and leave it where they'll find it—a small gesture with a big impact.
Pick a daily word from a calendar or online source. Use it in a sentence, write it down a few times, and before you know it, you've broadened your mind and conversation skills.
For most, it’s been a while since they stopped and actually thought about what fun means to them. It changes over the years and is important to frequently revisit and re-evaluate! Do you enjoy being out with friends or getting lost in the woods somewhere? Fun is different for everyone.
Sources: (Marc & Angel Hack Life) (Be More with Less)
See also: Life made easy: clever hacks for a simplified lifestyle
Pick up the phone and actually give a call to someone you love. Consider changing it up from time to time and calling different people. It will be a nice surprise and sure to put a smile on their face.
Take five minutes and jot down a few things you’re thankful for. Reminding yourself that even small things can and do bring you joy, is helpful when life might be feeling overwhelming. You can’t help but feel good when you start to see how many amazing things you have in your life.
Schedule some time to be with or visit someone who makes you smile and that you love. Being with loved ones helps to bring joy and peace into our lives and supports our emotional health.
Yoga and stretching, even for a short time, promote health and wellness. Release tension in your muscles and focus on your breathing. This short exercise and time spent intentionally will rejuvenate your body and get you ready to tackle the rest of your day.
Staying on top of your finances is a must for peace of mind. Dedicate thirty minutes to settle a bill or two. It's a small step towards financial well-being and reduced stress.
Want to improve your life but can never find the time? Welcome to the club! Unfortunately, life has a funny way of sneaking up on us and often it can feel like we're overscheduled and overworked. However, it is possible and necessary to take short breaks. Within a short break of thirty minutes or less, there is a ton that can actually be accomplished. From connecting with loved ones to recentering yourself, it might not take as long as you think to improve your quality of life.
Curious to know what you can achieve in under thirty minutes? Click through now to explore.
Productive tasks you can complete in 30 minutes or less
Improve your life in less than half an hour!
LIFESTYLE Tips
Want to improve your life but can never find the time? Welcome to the club! Unfortunately, life has a funny way of sneaking up on us and often it can feel like we're overscheduled and overworked. However, it is possible and necessary to take short breaks. Within a short break of thirty minutes or less, there is a ton that can actually be accomplished. From connecting with loved ones to recentering yourself, it might not take as long as you think to improve your quality of life.
Curious to know what you can achieve in under thirty minutes? Click through now to explore.