At Maddock & Associates, we’re all about taking care of people; whether that means helping you navigate your benefits or simply reminding you to take a breath now and then. That’s why we’re pausing for a moment to highlight National Relaxation Day, celebrated each year on August 15.
Originally created by a nine-year-old boy in 1985, National Relaxation Day reminds us all of the importance of slowing down, stepping back, and making room for rest. It’s a simple idea, but in today’s busy world, it’s more important than ever.
Relaxation is good for business (and your brain)
Whether you’re managing employee benefits, running a company, or raising a family, burnout doesn’t help anyone. Taking intentional breaks to recharge can actually lead to better focus, clearer decision-making, and improved well-being. Studies have shown that even just a few minutes of deep breathing, stretching, or unplugging from screens can lower stress levels and help restore energy.
Ways to Celebrate National Relaxation Day at Work or at Home:
- Step away from the screen. In a digital world, we’re almost always connected—to emails, meetings, messages, and more. Taking intentional time to step away from your computer or phone, even for just 10–15 minutes, helps reset your mind and reduce eye strain. Step outside if you can—fresh air and natural light do wonders. A quick walk around the block, some light stretching, or even sitting on a bench without your phone gives your brain the space to recharge.
- Try a breathing or mindfulness app. Stress creeps in quietly—and sometimes stays longer than we realize. Breathing or meditation apps like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer make it easy to sneak in a few peaceful minutes, even during a busy day. Whether you follow a short guided meditation or just close your eyes and breathe deeply, five minutes of mindful stillness can lower cortisol levels and leave you feeling more grounded and focused.
- Encourage your team to take breaks. When leaders and coworkers openly take breaks, it signals to the whole team that rest is not only allowed—it’s supported. Encourage your team to step away from their desks for lunch, stretch during a long afternoon, or even take a quick walk together. Breaks boost productivity, improve morale, and help prevent burnout. They’re a simple, powerful way to build a workplace culture that values people—not just output.
- Enjoy something simple. Relaxation doesn’t need to mean candles, spa music, or a whole afternoon off (though those are great, too!). Sometimes the most effective way to unwind is by savoring a small joy: a warm cup of tea, a favorite song on your playlist, or a few chapters of a good book. These low-effort comforts help us pause and reset—reminding us that peace can be found in the little things, even on a regular workday.
Why it matters to us
At Maddock & Associates, we believe caring for people includes encouraging balance. We know our clients, colleagues, and community members wear many hats, and that rest is essential to performing your best in all of them. National Relaxation Day is a perfect reminder to press pause, take a breath, and give yourself permission to slow down.
So on August 15, we invite you to take a moment for yourself. Whether it’s five minutes or a full afternoon, do something that helps you feel calm, centered, and ready to tackle whatever comes next.
You’ve earned it.
