Relaxing Before the Journey: Finding Balance in Etobicoke


Before embarking on a long journey, there’s nothing quite like taking some time to relax and reset—both physically and mentally. On Monday, I found myself in the perfect place to do just that, staying at a friend’s condo in Etobicoke, Toronto. It was the ideal sanctuary to unwind before hitting the road again.

The condo had everything I needed to recharge: a peaceful pool, a hot tub to melt away any stress, and even a sauna for a deeper detox. I spent hours alternating between these, letting the water soothe my muscles and the heat clear my mind. Afterwards, I took a moment to simply lay out on the patio, soaking up the quiet, the fresh air, and the space to just be.

Being alone in a beautiful, peaceful setting reminded me how important it is to pause and ground yourself, especially before a big transition or trip. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of planning and packing, but carving out time for yourself is essential. Here are a few ways I found helpful to relax and reset, and I hope they can help you, too:


1. Embrace the Power of Water

Whether it's a pool, hot tub, or even a bath, water has an incredible ability to soothe both body and mind. I made the most of the condo’s amenities by immersing myself in the pool to get some gentle movement in, and then soaking in the hot tub to release any lingering tension. The sauna was perfect for a final deep sweat, clearing my skin and detoxifying my system. Using water to relax is an ancient practice, and it always works wonders.

2. Take Time to Be Still

It can be tempting to fill every moment with activity, but sometimes the most rejuvenating thing you can do is to be still. As I laid out on the patio, I gave myself permission to simply exist—no agenda, no distractions, just peace. Taking even 15 minutes to sit quietly outside, or by a window, allows your mind to slow down and reset. It's amazing how restorative a little quiet time can be.

3. Focus on Breathing

One of the simplest, yet most effective, ways to ground yourself is by focusing on your breath. While sitting in the sauna or laying on the patio, I practiced deep breathing, inhaling for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four. This simple technique instantly helps calm the nervous system and brings a sense of balance back to your body. It's a small practice, but it has a huge impact.

4. Reflect and Let Go

Taking time before a big journey is not just about relaxing physically but also mentally clearing space for what’s to come. While enjoying my peaceful surroundings, I spent a few moments reflecting on what I want to leave behind—stress, worries, and anything weighing me down. Journaling can also be a great tool for this, allowing you to release those thoughts onto paper and move forward feeling lighter.

5. Nourish Your Body

Before you embark on your next adventure, be sure to nourish your body. I prepped some simple, healthy meals, making it easier to fuel myself with good food without stress. Whether it’s preparing meals in advance or simply ensuring you’re eating well before a long trip, taking care of your body is key to feeling grounded and energized.


Taking the time to relax in Etobicoke reminded me of the importance of self-care before a long journey. It’s easy to let the rush of life push us to the next destination without pause, but those moments of quiet, intentional relaxation are what truly help us reset. Whether it's soaking in a hot tub or just sitting still with your thoughts, finding balance before stepping into the unknown makes all the difference.


Here’s to finding peace before the adventure, and carrying that sense of balance wherever the journey takes us,

Brittany