Keeping busy to feel productive is wrecking many people's mental and physical health in the long run. Taking active steps in resting will not only improve your health, but it will also make you more present and appreciative of each moment. So how do you escape the busyness epidemic? Here are five tips to get you started.

Be realistic with your time

'We all have the same 24hrs in a day,' a phrase that has been getting a bad rep because of who it usually comes from, but it's true. You only have 24 hrs in a day, which means you need to be realistic with your time and how you divide it to complete tasks and family obligations.

Knowing when to de-load is crucial to you resting without having the anxiety monkey trying to remind you of how many things you still have left to do. You will need to learn to say no when you are already having a busy day. If you know that a task will take longer to complete, be realistic by saving it for tomorrow. In the meantime, complete the smaller task that will not require most of your time.

Know your triggers

Running away from things that stress you out is a recipe for disaster. Take what stresses you and confront it. Beat it into submission with positive reinforcements if you must! However, choosing to ignore it or fill your mind to avoid it is just delaying the process. It will give you the upper hand. You may not have a solution immediately, but naming your stressors is the first step.

Switch-off

Research is increasing in the effects of how too much screen time is affecting our sleep patterns and our mental health, which both have a domino effect on our emotional wellbeing.

If your days are filled by tapping at a screen, PC, or watching copious amounts of tv it is time to switch off. Literally. According to MediaUpdate, South Africans spend an average of  8 hours and 25 minutes on the internet, the global average is at 6 hours and 41 minutes.

Being in an active state of calm can be something such as going for a walk, sitting in silence, taking a short nap, stretching, going for a massage, or not using your phone on your daily commute to give you enough time to reset and get in the right state of mind.

Lay back to your favourite jams

Parents or people who are planning on spending time with their family will find that their time is spread thin. Going for a walk or taking a peaceful nap can be out of the question. Choose music to unwind, but make sure it's music that puts you in a good mood to face the day.

Choosing Gratitude

Simmering in the negative things can spiral out of control, lead to more stress, and a state of sadness. Instead, you can choose to focus on the little things that make you grateful. Not only will it shift your perspective, but it can help you reduce stress.