7 Relaxing Techniques For A More Peaceful Existence
© Michelle Howard Smith - All Rights Reserved
Before modern technology and the explosion of the information age, people led simple lives. There wasn't much
need for relaxing techniques. Horse and buggy was a less stressful form of transportation and writing letters or paying visits was the chosen form of communication. Now we have blackberries, iPhones and so much more to keep us busy and on the go. Of course, modern technology has improved our existence...or has it?
In today's crazy world with all of the hustle and bustle, you must be armed with techniques to help you achieve a state of peacefulness. Below is a list of seven relaxing techniques that you can put into practice any time you need to escape the overwhelming moments of your life. The best part is most of these relaxing techniques are free and will help provide your body with stress relief so that you can unwind.
- Positive Visualization - Close your eyes for about 5 minutes and let your mind take you to a peaceful place (the beach, park etc.) or to a happy moment in time (ex: a child's birth) Reside there for a while.
- Deep Breathing - Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth, with your hand placed on your diaphragm. Repeat this several times as you feel the stress or anxiety melt away
- A Brief Nap - Sometimes you just need to unwind and recharge by "checking out" for a few. Find a quiet place to cat nap for 10-15 minutes. You may not fall asleep but the simple act of resting your eyes will help relax you
- Give Yourself a Personal Massage - This may sound weird but there are certain reflex points on the hands and feet that you can massage by yourself to help you relax.
- Relax with Aromatherapy - Diffuse relaxing essential oils (ex: lavender, jasmine, grapefruit) into the air or apply directly to your body (some aroma oils require dilution) and inhale the calming scents
- Stretch Tense Muscles - Do stretch exercises for your neck, back, feet and legs to work the stress and kinks out
- Enjoy A Tub Soak - This is a most common relaxation method. Fill your tub with very warm water and just soak. Add Epsom Salt or aroma oils to the water to really relax the body. Add some positive visualization and you'll be combining three of the relaxation techniques I just shared. A tub soak is a relaxing technique that works best after a long day.
