Getting your CNA certification is certainly something of which you can be proud. However, it is also very stressful to be heading into a new job. If you have been feeling a new mental or physical strain during this time, you may be able to benefit from some exercise, exciting sports or playful downtime.
Even if working out or playing sound just like one more thing to fit into your already packed schedule, you may be surprised to discover how much downtime can help you. For example, physical exercise helps your body create endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that decrease pain and stress, while downtime gives your brain that much-needed rest.
Try an Extreme Sport
Extreme sports may seem as if they are only good for truly adventuresome types, but even if you are usually focused on safety and more realistic endeavors, there is no denying how good you can feel after a pulse-pounding activity. Extreme sports get you out of your comfort zone, give you more confidence in your daily life and let you get out and see more of the world. Plus, there is no denying that they will get your mind off work.
One fun option is kite surfing, a thrilling sport that combines the watery spray of surfing with the wind-in-your-face thrill of paragliding. With kite surfing, you stand on a special board and fly quickly across the water with the help of a powered kite. Of course, you will need to do this at a windy beach.
If you do not live near the beach, there are plenty of other extreme sports to try. Consider downhill mountain biking, bungee jumping, heli-skiing or whitewater rafting.
Engage in High Intensity Workouts
If you want to stay even closer to home, you can enjoy a high intensity workout at just about any local gym or in your own home. High intensity interval training is gaining in popularity as individuals discover that they can see plenty of results from just a short time of high intensity work. Plus, you can burn tons of calories, raise your metabolism, gain muscle and reduce your blood pressure, heart rate and blood sugar.
HIIT workouts can be incredibly fun. You have to stay focused on the workout the entire time, which helps to get your mind off anything stressful. Usually, a HIIT workout will include a minute or two of high intensity work, such as cycling, sprinting or jumping jacks, followed by a lower intensity recovery period, such as walking or strength training. Most workouts last 30 minutes or less.
Schedule in Simple Games and Play Times
Of course, there are plenty of simple games, backyard fun and low-key sports that can also help you unwind. Consider frisbee golf, which many cities have set up in local parks. While you will need to concentrate on throwing, you will also have plenty of time to enjoy nature as well as your friends. Other good low-key options include kayaking, biking, swimming and table tennis.
Whether you unwind best with high-intensity adventures or with relaxing sports you can do with friends, you will definitely want to find something that helps take your mind off work. Giving your brain a chance to unwind will help you come back to your work with renewed dedication, pleasure and confidence.