How to *actually* unwind

Let’s be real: relaxing should be easy, in theory. But for most of us? It’s weirdly hard.

For a lot of us, our bodies are running on stress hormones. Our minds are juggling work, family, and endless notifications. And when we do get a free moment? We reach for our phones or zone out to Netflix out of habit… not always bad, but not exactly restorative either.

Here’s the thing: relaxation is a skill. And like any skill, it takes practice. But the benefits are huge: think better hormone balance, deeper sleep, lower cortisol, improved digestion, and even fewer sugar cravings. The goal isn’t to “do nothing”, it’s to shift your nervous system into a rest-and-repair state (a.k.a. your parasympathetic mode).

The best part? You don’t need an hour of yoga or a silent retreat. Below, we’re sharing 6 intentional ways to actively relax—so you can feel calm, centered, and more you in just a few minutes a day.

But first—why does relaxation matter?

Chronic stress is more than just a mental burden. It’s a hormonal disruptor. When your body is in go-go-go mode, it releases cortisol to keep you on high alert. In the short term, this can be helpful. But when cortisol stays elevated (thanks to packed schedules, constant stimulation, and not enough true rest) it throws everything off: your cycle, sleep, metabolism, even your thyroid. 

And here’s the kicker: your body doesn’t automatically relax once the stressor is gone. You have to guide it there.

That’s where active relaxation comes in. These intentional practices help shift your nervous system from sympathetic (fight-or-flight) to parasympathetic (rest-and-digest). And when you make this shift consistently? Hormones begin to rebalance, inflammation quiets down, and your body can finally do what it’s designed to: heal, cycle, and thrive.

1. Take 10 Minutes to Just Be

Step outside. Leave your phone inside. And just... exist. Sit on the porch, lay on the grass, or stare out the window. Let your senses take over: feel the breeze, listen to birds, soak in natural light. This is mindfulness without the pressure. And yes, this absolutely counts as relaxation.

Bonus: Even 10 minutes in nature can lower cortisol, reduce rumination, and improve mood, according to studies on “green time” and mental health.

2. Wind Down with a Magnesium Mocktail

If your nervous system feels wired at night, magnesium might be your best friend. It supports over 600 enzymatic reactions in the body—especially those related to calming the brain, relaxing muscles, and prepping you for deeper sleep.

Try this bedtime combo:

• 8 oz filtered water
• 1 scoop beeya magnesium powder 
• Splash of tart cherry juice (a natural melatonin source)
• Squeeze of lemon
• Optional: dash of sea salt for electrolytes

Stir, sip slowly, and cue the relaxed vibes.

Want more recipe inspo? We also love these three magnesium mocktails!

3. Make a Joyful, Intentional Meal

Cooking shouldn’t be stressful. We truly believe that when done with love and presence, it’s one of the most grounding things you can do. Put on music, light a candle, and cook something that brings you joy.

Chop slowly. Taste as you go. Plate it beautifully. This isn’t just food, it’s a mindfulness practice that engages your senses and brings you into the moment.

4. Try the 4-7-8 Breath

When in doubt, breathe. Intentional breathing shifts your body out of stress mode (fast!). It increases oxygen flow, calms the mind, and activates the vagus nerve—your body's relaxation switch.

How to do it:

• Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds
• Hold for 7 seconds
• Exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds
• Repeat for 3 - 5 rounds.

You’ll be surprised how quickly this works, particularly when you’re overstimulated or anxious.

5. Soak It All Away

A warm bath is one of the most accessible nervous system resets. The heat increases circulation, relaxes muscles, and encourages your body to release tension. Add epsom salts for a magnesium boost or lavender oil for calming aromatherapy.

No tub? Try soaking your feet in a basin of warm water with sea salt (while you read, journal, or just sit back). Same benefits, less time.

6. Read for Pleasure

Not work. Not self-improvement. Not even parenting hacks. Pick something that’s just for fun. A novel, poetry, your favorite magazine. Reading transports your mind, slows your breath, and helps you focus on one thing—something most of us rarely do anymore.

Pro tip: Reading before bed improves sleep quality and helps you fall asleep faster. Just 5-15 minutes can do the trick.

Relaxation Is Active, Not Passive

You don’t have to meditate for 30 minutes or book a massage to feel relaxed. Instead, build micro-moments of calm into your day. Whether that’s a slow meal, a breathwork practice, or 10 minutes in your backyard, it all adds up.

And if you’re seed cycling with us? You’re already supporting your body’s natural rhythms, which makes it easier to relax and restore. Let that be your reminder: your body isn’t the enemy. It just needs space to feel safe, grounded, and nourished.