Finding time to rest helps you to rejuvenate. It allows you to free yourself from the demands, stresses of life, and provides an opportunity for you to recoup and restart. Here are some easy techniques to help you relax and relieve stress.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is a form of relaxation, and it controls stress. It involves holding air in for about three to four seconds and then letting it out or exhaling slowly. Try to complete daily at least 20 of these exercises in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Deep breathing supplies oxygen to the cells and to the brain. Deep breathing reduces blood pressure and slows down the heart rate.
Meditation
Meditation has a biological effect on the body. This confirmation originates from research using genomics and neuro-imaging technology. Meditation is one means of relieving stress and encouraging relaxation. An easy meditation technique requires you to sit in an upright position with both feet touching the floor. With your eyes closed, think of something positive, such as 'I am joyful.' Keep repeating the statement until you experience joy.
Get in Touch with Your Body
Sometimes, you might be unaware of the effects of stress on your body. A good way to check is to lie relaxed on your back and engage in a small mental exercise. Focus on each area of your body, starting from your feet all the way to your head. Pay attention to any area of stiffness or tightness as you focus on each part.
Make the Effort to Communicate
Talk with someone you feel you can trust. Try to understand other viewpoints about issue with which you may be facing. If you cannot get out to chat in person, consider calling up someone on the phone.
Mash Those Brakes
Slow down and take time to enjoy the simple things around you. Smell the flowers, walk in the rain, and just enjoy the moment. Appreciate the small things in life. There is always something to be grateful for if you take the time to look.
Unzip
Unzip at the end of the day. Release from your system all the demands and stress you experienced during the day. Use a comforting warm compress on your shoulders and neck while you lie relaxed with your eyes closed. Next, loosen up all the tight areas of your body using a small roller ball.
Control Your Thoughts
Learn to control stressful and anxious thoughts. Think about things that are useful, edifying, lovely, and uplifting. When stressful thoughts show up, stop them in their tracks by immediately focusing your mind on something to make you smile.
Thought for the Day
Begin your day on a positive note. Implement a 'Thought For the Day' message to greet you on waking. Read it and let it guide to attitude for the day.
Plan Your Day
Be realistic about how many things you can achieve during the day. Leave at least 20 minutes free time to relax and remain in touch with yourself.
Decide to Control Your Actions
You can make a statement about your actions and follow through with it. For example, you can say, 'Today, I own my actions. I decide how I react to issues I face.' Do not let emotions control you but think before you act. How should I respond to that? What will be the reaction if I answer? The answer to these questions can save you much stress.
