I usually publish my Editorially Thoughts column on Mondays, but this week was Labor Day. Who’s reading random blogs on a holiday? Not many is the answer I’m sure. I thought about giving myself the week off, but as I just returned to writing this column on a weekly basis, I decided it was better to stay in the habit and publish a couple days later.

With the long weekend in mind I am focusing on the aspect of time off. When that concept pops into mind, quite often we think of binging a tv show, hanging out with friends, and/or sleeping in late. But wait! There’s another aspect to time off that’s central to my life- fitness.

I know I’ve written about my workout regimen several times, so I’ll skip that. What I do want to share is my appreciation of yoga. Although it’s something I fit into my schedule only a couple times a month, it is an activity that I enjoy and appreciate, as it gives me time away.

Now, in all honesty, I do spend a decent amount of time in class trying to convince my brain to stay focused on yoga and nothing else. Typically my brain likes to review to-do lists, rehash daily events, and plan my calendar, but I try again and again to get back in the moment.

Although the mental part is difficult, the physical part is easier. It’s not easier in that I’m crazy flexible, it’s just easier for me to push my body to new limits. Can I stretch a little further? Hold a pose a little longer?

Last week, we had a smaller class, so the instructor suggested we use yoga boards. It was the best yoga class I’ve ever attended. Having to keep balanced while moving through a variety of poses, I could feel my muscles working just a little bit harder. Maybe focusing on balance even kept my brain focused better.

Yoga may not be the answer for you. It could be softball, hiking, or some other physical endeavor. Whatever it is, find something that keeps you physically active and away from your work. It really is a fine sort of time off once you find the activity that excites you.