For approximately five years, Hawaii has been regarded as the least stressed state in America, with approximately 70 percent of residents saying they feel absolutely no stress or anxiety. Perhaps that is because, in Hawaii, we have unfettered access to some of the world’s greatest beaches, incredible weather, and a high level of fitness. However, it would be crazy to assume that our stress levels stay the same year-round, and with all the holiday worries, I think everyone in Hawaii could use a little extra relaxation.
- Watch the sun set over the ocean.
G Clark/Flickr What is more Hawaiian than heading to the beach with your sweetie and watching the sun fade into the horizon over the beautiful Pacific Ocean?
- Head to the spa.
Melanie Wynne/Flickr Hawaii is home to some of the country’s best spas. After all, is there anything more relaxing than a deep tissue massage with the sound of waves crashing in the background?
- Take a leisurely stroll, or a hike.
Leonard S. Jacobs/Flickr Taking a walk – or even hiking up the side of a mountain – can be immensely physically and mentally restorative.
- Sail out to sea.
Laura Hamilton/Flickr Check out local boat charters, and sunset or dinner cruises and escape from your life via boat. Let the wind flow through your hair and let go of all your earthly worries.
- Meditate.
Karendesuyo/Flickr If you’ve never done it, meditating on your own can be challenging, which is why I suggest going to a guided meditation session. My favorite is the Saturday meditation at Mu Ryang-Sa Buddhist temple in Oahu’s Manoa Valley.
- Grab a drink.
W & J/Flickr I have to admit that one of my favorite ways to relax is to sit on my lanai, sipping a cold beer or glass of wine and playing with my sweet dog. If you’re looking for Hawaii-made alcohol, check out Kona Brewing Company or Maui Wine.
- Lay on the beach.
John Morgan/Flickr There is little more relaxing than simply laying on the beach, soaking up the sun – and heading to the water whenever you get too warm.
- Go for a drive.
Armin Rodler/Flickr As long as you aren’t driving through Honolulu during rush hour, a drive around the island can be extremely relaxing. The stellar views are always a bonus, too.
- Do some yoga.
Kyle Nishioka/Flickr There are countless yoga studios across the Hawaiian Islands for you to check out when you need to. Even better, get your Namaste on beachside.
- Relax over a cup of grown in Hawaii coffee.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr Whether you choose to check out a new café or head to your favorite coffee shop, there is little better than catching up with an old friend over coffee, or sipping a latte while diving into a new book.
- Go horseback riding.
Rocky A/Flickr There are various ranches and farms in Hawaii that offer horseback riding. Choose one that’s convenient for you and let your anxieties melt away as you experience the islands from a new perspective.
- Play a round of golf.
Zach Dischner/Flickr If you’re looking to physical activity for a dose of respite, look no further than a leisurely game of golf on one of the islands’ many incredible courses. This may not be the best idea if you’re ultra-competitive (like me).
- Go stargazing.
Christopher Chan/Flickr As the most isolated population center on earth, Hawaii gives us uninhibited views of the night sky, especially from the summit of Mauna Kea
- Do absolutely nothing.
Matt McGee/Flickr Sometimes, you just need to do, well, nothing. Take an entire day to just, chill. Don’t make any plans, take a nap in a hammock, and just let go.
Tell us, how do you relax in Hawaii?
G Clark/Flickr
What is more Hawaiian than heading to the beach with your sweetie and watching the sun fade into the horizon over the beautiful Pacific Ocean?
Melanie Wynne/Flickr
Hawaii is home to some of the country’s best spas. After all, is there anything more relaxing than a deep tissue massage with the sound of waves crashing in the background?
Leonard S. Jacobs/Flickr
Taking a walk – or even hiking up the side of a mountain – can be immensely physically and mentally restorative.
Laura Hamilton/Flickr
Check out local boat charters, and sunset or dinner cruises and escape from your life via boat. Let the wind flow through your hair and let go of all your earthly worries.
Karendesuyo/Flickr
If you’ve never done it, meditating on your own can be challenging, which is why I suggest going to a guided meditation session. My favorite is the Saturday meditation at Mu Ryang-Sa Buddhist temple in Oahu’s Manoa Valley.
W & J/Flickr
I have to admit that one of my favorite ways to relax is to sit on my lanai, sipping a cold beer or glass of wine and playing with my sweet dog. If you’re looking for Hawaii-made alcohol, check out Kona Brewing Company or Maui Wine.
John Morgan/Flickr
There is little more relaxing than simply laying on the beach, soaking up the sun – and heading to the water whenever you get too warm.
Armin Rodler/Flickr
As long as you aren’t driving through Honolulu during rush hour, a drive around the island can be extremely relaxing. The stellar views are always a bonus, too.
Kyle Nishioka/Flickr
There are countless yoga studios across the Hawaiian Islands for you to check out when you need to. Even better, get your Namaste on beachside.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Whether you choose to check out a new café or head to your favorite coffee shop, there is little better than catching up with an old friend over coffee, or sipping a latte while diving into a new book.
Rocky A/Flickr
There are various ranches and farms in Hawaii that offer horseback riding. Choose one that’s convenient for you and let your anxieties melt away as you experience the islands from a new perspective.
Zach Dischner/Flickr
If you’re looking to physical activity for a dose of respite, look no further than a leisurely game of golf on one of the islands’ many incredible courses. This may not be the best idea if you’re ultra-competitive (like me).
Christopher Chan/Flickr
As the most isolated population center on earth, Hawaii gives us uninhibited views of the night sky, especially from the summit of Mauna Kea
Matt McGee/Flickr
Sometimes, you just need to do, well, nothing. Take an entire day to just, chill. Don’t make any plans, take a nap in a hammock, and just let go.
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