Our Great Blue Resorts are the perfect place to slow down and really reflect on everything in and around you. In this constantly going, always-on world, it can be difficult sometimes to even know where to start when it comes to relaxation, so this blog will act as a helpful guide on how to relax and reflect. Put your phone on silent, take a deep breath, and let’s go.
A Relaxing Walk to the Water
Wake up slowly and let yourself ease into the day. Once you’re ready to go, go on a leisurely walk down to a dock or the water. Maybe take a detour through a nature trail and take in everything around you. Stay present, notice the sunlight glimmering through the trees, and the calming bird calls all around. Whether you end up at a sandy beach or a dock, let the natural beauty around you lead the way.
Yoga
Once you arrive at the water, take a moment to settle in. Whether you’re experienced or have never tried it before, lakeside yoga is a beautiful way to connect with your body. Start with some simple poses and stretches, no need to be fancy. Focus on your breathing, your balance, and how your body feels as it moves. Let the natural sounds around you guide your rhythm. At some resorts like Lantern Bay, there are guided yoga sessions you could attend if you want a more community-driven feel or someone to help guide you through.
Meditation
After moving your body, give your mind the same attention. Sit comfortably on the dock, in the sand or grass, or even back on your own deck, and try a short meditation. Close your eyes and take a few deep, slow breaths. Listen to the world around you: the breeze through the leaves, the water lapping at the shore, distant birdsong. Try a simple body scan by mentally checking in with each part of your body and letting tension go, bit by bit. Start from the tips of your toes, up through your legs, all the way to the very top of your head. If your thoughts wander (and they will), that’s okay. Just notice them and gently return to the moment you’re in. Let nothing else matter but the present moment.
Journaling
After meditating, take a few moments to write in a journal. This can be as structured or natural as you’d like. Start by writing down everything you’re grateful for, no matter how big or small. It’s so easy to get caught up in negativity that we sometimes forget all we truly have, so take the time to acknowledge and appreciate that. Be honest and open with your thoughts. There should be no judgment within yourself, just write what you feel, what has been on your mind a lot, and take this chance to work through anything that is getting in your way within yourself. Let your thoughts flow.
If you can, try to write your thoughts down physically, put pen to paper. Don’t just think about what you’re writing, but the active act of writing it. By writing things down, you can help yourself let those things go. If you don’t know what to write, be inspired by what’s around you. Write about what sounds you hear, or your journey to get to the resort. Be patient with yourself, this is for you, and there is no right or wrong way to go about it.
Reflect
Once you’ve journaled, stretched, and grounded yourself in the moment, give yourself time to simply sit and reflect. Let the calm you’ve created settle into your body. Think about how far you’ve come, where you are right now, and the beauty that surrounds you. Let go of anything heavy and make room for clarity, joy, and appreciation. There’s something special about mornings by the lake, something that invites us to just be. And here at Great Blue Resorts, you have the perfect setting to do exactly that.
Ready to Begin?
Next time you wake up at your resort cottage, don’t rush. Let nature lead the way. All it takes is a few mindful moments to start your day with clarity, gratitude, and peace.
