Return to Blog

Auguts 14, 2023

With the impending return to school signaling the end of Summer, many of us fret over activities we missed or scramble to squeeze in one last trip, causing unnecessary stress during what should be a tranquil time. National Relaxation Day, which falls on August 15th each year, is the perfect reminder for everyone to take a break from their busy lives, unwind, and engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief. While not an official holiday, people often use National Relaxation Day as an opportunity to indulge in leisure activities, meditation, spa treatments, or simply spending time in a peaceful environment.

National Relaxation Day was established on August 15th, 1985, by Sean Moeller, a then 9-year-old boy from Michigan, with a big helping hand from his grandfather, William Chase, creator of Chase’s Calendar of Events, a reference of holidays, federal and state observances, special events, and unusual celebrations. Even at his tender age, Sean recognized that people needed to take a step back from their busy schedules and focus on their well-being.

While how people relax takes on myriad flavors, shapes, and forms, a recent survey of 2,000 Americans found that their favorite ways to relieve stress included spending time in nature, getting better sleep, and eating healthy. Reading was also a top stress buster—and a great excuse to kick back and learn about a few of our many products designed to help you calm your mind and body.

The Weatherproof Outdoor Recliner makes it as easy to relax outdoors as your favorite living room chair. Available only from Hammacher Schlemmer, it's made with heavy-gauge resin wicker and plump fabric-covered cushions that withstand exposure to harsh elements year after year. A pop-up side panel keeps relaxation accessories such as beverages and reading materials close at hand.

For those struggling to get some decent shut-eye, The Authentic Sleep Sound Machine is a deceptively simple but effective white noise generator that has been helping people achieve better sleep since we first introduced it in 1962. Ideal for corporate offices, doctor’s offices, a baby’s room, and more, it produces a soothing whooshing sound that creates an environment more conducive to concentration, relaxation, or sleep. .

No need for another pricey, countertop-hogging gadget to help you cook healthier meals. The Universal Air Frying Oven Tray cooks your favorite foods to crispy perfection like an oilless air fryer in any oven. Eliminating the hassle and expense of using a separate appliance, the tray lets you cook crispy chicken, French fries, and pizza without oil or butter to help reduce calories and fat. Its non-stick, ceramic-titanium surface lets you plop it in the dishwasher for stress-free clean up too.

Whichever way you choose to relax, the most important thing is to set aside a portion of each day for yourself. A little self-care goes a long way in helping to maintain your physical and mental well-being.