What is it?
Relaxation is dwindling these days. However, it is a vital component of optimal health. Stress, whether physical, mental, or emotional, is a part of every day life. We have mechanisms in our bodies that help us to adapt to these everyday stressors.
However, when stress becomes greater or prolonged, this can result in high blood pressure, anxiety, back pain and other body aches. Too much stress can create hormone imbalances, which contribute to insomnia, insulin resistance, hot flashes or migraines.
Learning to manage and reduce stress in a natural healthy way will ultimately effect every area of our lives. Our goal then, is to balance our everyday stressors in work, family, friends and health as well as integrate relaxation techniques to help us do this.
What to do?
There are a variety of ways to reduce stress and relax. What works for you, may not for another. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Use Time Management – block off specific times to relax.
- Balance Work and Play – do things that are fun too.
- Take a Deep Breath – practice deep breathing exercises.
- Meditate or Pray – schedule time to pray or meditate.
- Music – listen to the music that makes you relaxed.
- Laugh – do it regularly.
- Read – get a new book.
- Eat Slowly – healthy digestion leads to relaxed mind.
- Exercise Regularly – incorporate cardiovascular exercises as well as some slower ones that focus your mind and body.
- Garden – plant some of your favorite flowers or vegetables.
- Enjoy Nature – take in the beauty of your surroundings (listen, smell, look, touch, feel).
- Address relationship issues – deal with the conflict you may have been avoiding.
- Address Issues With Job, Friends, Family and Self – take some time to do some reflection in these areas.
- Reduce Stimulants and Sedatives – eliminate excessive intake of caffeine, stimulants, or sleeping aids if possible.
- Do Nothing – take the challenge of scheduling time to do absolutely nothing.