Statistics show that the majority of us don't dedicate enough "downtime" to ourselves.

And yet it's so important. Spending quality time alone to stop, rest and breathe allows us to connect with ourselves on a deeper level. It also enables us to re-energise our bodies so we can continue with the busy lives we lead.

Denying ourselves this opportunity creates nothing but long term stress, anxiety and uncertainty. The darkness descends and we become ships in the night travelling from port to port bearing load after load. So take the time to unload and float in a blissful sea of calm for a while. You'll discover an expansive sky full of opportunities and dreams you never knew you had.

Believe me it works. I'm a mum and downtime is something that doesn't come easily but when recently faced with a tough life decision I took extra time to be still and relax. 

Stillness creates a space around us that allows thoughts and visions to shift from the internal to the external - suddenly we become aware of things we'd never even considered before.

It was through stillness that I learnt a valuable life lesson...a lesson about what I call solitary love. We OWE it to ourselves to find our solitary space and really LISTEN. With an insight into what really matters we have the opportunity to lead an honest and valuable life.

The more we do it the more clarity we achieve and all it takes is a little downtime.

Dedicate the time to float on your blue sea of calm.
Stop....rest.....breathe.
Therein lie the answers to all you desire.

Here's another great article that reveals the importance of having time alone:
http://www.oprah.com/spirit/Why-You-Must-Have-Solitude-and-Time-For-Yourself


Image Courtesy: Getty Images

If you're interested in breathing exercises for relaxation, this article has some great tips:
http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/counselling/relaxation-exercises