15 Quotes to Help You Relax and Slow Down

Life is all about balance — work hard, play hard, that sort of thing. But where can we fit relaxation into that busy go-go-go equation?

The dictionary definition of “relax” is aspirational and healing: “to make or become less tense or anxious.” For some folks, relaxation takes the form of zoning out in front of a TV. For others, gardening or tending to the house offers calming effects. Whatever your chosen method of relaxation — whether it be time spent horizontal in a hammock or pressing pause on work to stroll through the neighborhood — rest should be a built-in part of everyone’s daily routine.

So when deadlines and to-do’s start to feel overwhelming, take these 15 quotes about the importance of relaxation to heart. Remember: This life is beautiful but brief, and it’s crucial to pause and destress every once in a while, so as not to miss the smaller moments that make all the work worthwhile.

There is more to life than increasing its speed.

Mahatma Gandhi

Taking time to do nothing often brings everything into perspective.

Doe Zantamata, author

The time to relax is when you don't have time for it.

Sydney J. Harris, journalist

It’s not the daily increase but the daily decrease. Hack away at the inessentials.

Bruce Lee

Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are.

Chinese proverb

We're so busy watching out for what's just ahead of us that we don't take time to enjoy where we are.

Bill Watterson, creator of "Calvin & Hobbes"

Calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence, so that's very important for good health.

Dalai Lama

Every now and then, go away, have a little relaxation, for when you come back to your work your judgment will be surer.

Leonardo da Vinci

Sometimes, the most productive thing that you can do is to step outside and do nothing… relax and enjoy nature.

Melanie Charlene, author

It's a good idea always to do something relaxing prior to making an important decision in your life.

Paulo Coelho, author

I promise you nothing is as chaotic as it seems. Nothing is worth diminishing your health. Nothing is worth poisoning yourself into stress, anxiety, and fear.

Steve Maraboli, author