The Litter Box-Catnip's Guide to Relaxation

I have observed over time how humans interact with their surroundings, and I must say, all of you are wound way to tight. You're like that proverbial long tail cat in a room full of rocking chairs. I can't blame you for the way you are; what with the burden of heavy work schedules to make ends meet, little vacation time, and definitely no time for yourself, I'd be wound as tight as you. Here are some tips that will help give you a chance to loosen up and relax, if only for a few minutes. Believe me it helps.

Catnip's Tips for Relaxtion:

Get a good night's sleep. A well rested mind let's you tackle life's challenges. It helps me when I need to chase the catnip balls around the house. Be sure to have a good bed to sleep in; my bed is up high on the book shelf.

A full body strecth when you first wake up will wake up your muscles and prepare them for the day at hand. I usually do this several times a day after each catnap. Try full body stretches throughout the day to keep you muscles awake.

A good breakfast (after that full body stretch) always gets me going until my next catnap(30 minutes later.) Be sure to eat a healthy breakfast to start your day off right. It's hard to focus your mind on those things that matter (like the birds outside the window) when your stomach is rumbling in hunger.

Catnap often. I know it's hard for you humans to catnap at work. So take you allotted break times and make the most of them. Do full body stretches, meditations, read a novel; whatever you do- just escape from work -even if it is only fifteen minutes, it will help.

Play as much as you are able. When not working, make time to do the things you love to do. Mine is chasing my sister Siggy around the house, pestering my human every chance I get, and the list goes on way to long for this blog. Next....

Cuddle with you significant other. The comfort of a close loved one never fails to relax me. Especially when I am curled up on her chest while she's watching Game of Thrones.

Cut back on the caffeine and sugary drinks. They are as bad as catnip when it comes to excitability factors. Don't eliminate it entirely, lord knows I can't give up my catnip cold turkey, but I have cut back on it in order to be more relaxed.

Prowl the neighborhood. A nice liesurely walk in your neighboorhood or in a park can do wonders for the body and mind. Meet and greet your fellow humans as you walk and strike up a conversation, you just may make a friend while you relax.

Laugh often. It relieves tension and does wonders for the abdomen.

Smile even when you don't feel like it. Soon you will. Me- I'm always smiling.

When you have vacation time, make the most of it. Don't use it as an excuse to get things done around the house, unless of course that is your idea of fun. Take the family and pets(if possible) on a road trip. See what mother nature has waiting for you out their on the road. Tip: If you cannot take your pet(s) with you, find a reputable petsitter or boarding facility to care for your four footed furry children.

Eat well, sleep well, catnap often, have a good laugh, and follow my tips to help you relax when you get wound too tight. Gotta go, I feel a catnap coming over me.

Catnip