Why Relaxation is So Important …
Clearly, modern lifestyles can be very stressful. Between work, family, and social obligations, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find time for oneself to relax. The new situation during the pandemic and the associated restrictions also have the potential to trigger stress in people. Therefore, taking a break at regular intervals is crucial. Relaxation plays a crucial role in staying healthy – both physically and mentally. It helps you recover from the daily pressures.
5 Simple Ways to Relax
The simpler, the better! You can relax with just a few minutes a day!
1. Exhale Tensions.
Breathing exercises for relaxation are one of the simplest techniques and can effectively calm your stressed body and mind anywhere, anytime. Sit or lie down in a quiet and safe place, such as your bed or on a mat or blanket on the floor. Place a hand on your belly. Breathe in slowly, count to five, and then exhale slowly to the count of five. 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5. Feel your belly rise and fall with each inhale and exhale. Repeat this five times or for as long as it feels suitable for you.
2. Go Green for Relaxation.
Spending a few minutes in nature can help you relax. Especially before or during stressful situations, a walk in nature often works wonders. Or you can sit on a park bench. You don’t necessarily have to be in nature to feel the stress-reducing effect. Scientists have found that you can also relax by simply looking at photos of green nature on a computer or smartphone for five minutes. This can provide a calming effect even for those living and working in cities far from nature. The greenery helps relax the eyes. If you like, you can listen to nature sounds through headphones, take a guided visualization, or simply listen to relaxation music: Music by Gabriel Florea & Dirk M. Schumacher
3. Keep a Gratitude Journal.
Creating a list of things you are grateful for can help you feel more relaxed. Experts say that during stress, we tend to focus more on the negatives than the positives of life. Reflecting on the positive aspects of your life and writing them down can help you relax. Think of three good things that happened to you today and write them down – even if they seem “small,” like arriving at work on time or having a delicious lunch. Nowadays, there are also beautiful gratitude journals available in stores.
4. Relaxing Muscles.
During mental stress, our body often becomes physically stressed as well. Suddenly, your back or neck might ache. Releasing tension can help reduce stress in the body and mind. Lie down on a soft surface, such as your bed or a yoga mat. Tighten one body part at a time, then slowly release your muscles. Observe how your body sensations change. Progress slowly from your toes to your head, or vice versa 😉 And don’t forget to relax your jaw muscles too! Tensions often accumulate there. Buy a yoga mat
5. Plan Digital Detox Times.
During a digital detox, you abstain from electronic devices such as smartphones or computers for a certain period. During this time, you can focus on your social contacts in the real world, or engage in activities you’ve wanted to do for a while. Read a book, go swimming, and so on. This can help reduce stress. Learn that you don’t always have to be reachable everywhere. Set a time period during which you want to abstain from your smartphone or TV. Start with short, achievable intervals. Nowadays, there are also apps and features on smartphones and computers to plan such periods of rest.
Conclusion
Life can sometimes be quite stressful. But that doesn’t mean you have to let it get you down. Take control and influence your stress by learning to relax. When you feel stressed, turn to a simple relaxation exercise. If you notice your child is stressed, encourage them to do the same. Because relaxation is important not only for us adults but also for the little ones. There’s also specific relaxation music available for children.
P.S. If you perceive a strong stress burden and find yourself unable to regulate it on your own, please seek help from an expert.
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