It’s a go-go-go world out there. The number of hours spent on the job isn’t limited to time at work; technology means we’re always connected, and although that can be a good thing, it can also be a bad thing if there is no down time. As counterintuitive as it may sound to some, it is important to schedule some relaxation time into each day. Of course relaxation may mean different things to different people, but that time when the mind and the body can stop going is important. Some ways that people can de-stress are to:
Train yourself to take slow, deep breaths for a few minutes before bed and when you get up in the morning
Enjoy the present moment
Draw up a nice bath, light a candle and have a relaxing soak
If you love to play or listen to music, sit back and become engrossed in the sounds
Take a few moments every day and make a list of things that you are grateful for
Get lost in a good book
Any of these things can help you relax and relieve some of the stress, even if just for a few minutes each day. What individuals do to relax is just as individual as all other aspects of their lives. The benefits of relaxation cannot really be overestimated. Truly relaxing improves your memory, reduces your risk of stroke, increases your ability to get a fulfilling night’s rest, and even improve productivity.
Something we all owe it to ourselves to do is to take some time to de-stress every day. You will get better at relaxing and once you build a habit of relaxing life will be more enjoyable. Whether through mediation, reading a book, or whatever else you love, removing stress for even a small period of time can improve your health.
What do you do to relax?