By Deborah Thomas
We live in a day and age where stress seems to be a common factor in our lives. It’s no secret that long-term stress can have a negative effect on your mind, body and spirit, and could lead to various health problems. With so much going on it’s easy to feel out of balance and unconnected. How can you find peace in a world where everything keeps going faster?
Relaxation Is Natural
Although you may feel guilty if you don’t tackle everything on your lengthy to-do list, the truth is that relaxation is normal and natural. This is a state we should all live in, not the constant rushing around and hurrying we often do. By taking time out to relax every day you can increase your immune system, respiratory system, and digestion. It also helps in improving personal relationships and can give you a more positive outlook on life.
A Quick Way To Relax
Contrary to what some may think, getting into a state of relaxation doesn’t have to take hours or even minutes. Once you learn this quick and easy relaxation technique you can take time out to relax any time you’re feeling stressed or just need to recharge your batteries.
1. Focus on your breathing. When we’re stressed we tend to breathe shallowly, which adds to our stress levels. Consciously slow down your breathing by taking slow, deep breaths through your nose. When you do it correctly you should feel your abdomen and chest expand. Hold this for a count of five then let it out slowly.
2. As you breathe focus on your body from head to toes and consciously relax your muscles with each breath. With one breath relax your feet and calves. With your next breath your thighs and hips. With your next breath your waist and back, then your chest and shoulder, and finally your neck and face.
3. Focus on your thoughts. When you’re under stress there are usually many things racing through your mind. You may find that you’re worrying about all of the tasks you need to complete, what to make for dinner, bills that need to be paid, and other things. All of these thoughts simply cloud your mind. By relaxing you’ll have sharper focus and will be able to complete tasks much easier and quicker. A simple way to interrupted racing thoughts is to mentally say the word “stop!” and imagine a peaceful image or scene.
When you first practice this relaxation exercise it may take you a few minutes, but in time you’ll be able to relax your mind and body in 60 seconds or less.
