Would you like a little less stress in your life? Managing stress is one of the most common concerns I'm contacted with at my practice, and one of the topics I'm always asked to speak about during my webinars, especially since COVID-19.
If you're not familiar with active relaxation, it is one of the most important things you can do for your health and well-being, and yes helping manage stress! It is as vital for your health as exercising, eating healthy, and sleeping right.
What is active relaxation? It is choosing activities that contribute to your overall well-being and good health. This may include cooking, meditation, listening to music, or taking a nature walk.
The Benefits of Active Relaxation
1) Calmer, clearer mind from busy, anxious thoughts
2) Better mood, improved concentration and focus
3) Helps lower blood pressure
4) Decreased mental and physical tension
5) Helps absorb nutrients more easily
The key is to schedule active relaxation into your day. Given how busy our lives are, it is important to shut down your electronics and step away from the constant doing and take time to clear your mind, relax your body, and refresh your spirit.
Here are some of my favorite ways to actively relax:
1. Listen to music. I personally find classical music very relaxing. But, put on your favorite music and just be in the moment and relax to the sounds.
2. Take a solo walk. Walking can work miracles when it comes to relaxing your mind and body, especially when you're out in nature! All it takes is 20 minutes to start feeling calmer!
3. Read. Grab your favorite book and take your mind on a vacation. It's a great way to lose yourself and forget about life for a while.
4. Cook. Not only is cooking incredibly relaxing, but, nourishing too. Instead of just tossing a meal into the microwave, try cooking yourself a simple, healthy meal. Not only will the cooking process calm you, but you’ll have more energy after a balanced meal.
5. Take a bath. If you’re feeling stressed or want a great way to wind down prior to bed, try a warm 20-minute soak in the bath. Add 2 cups of epsom salt to promote relaxation, sleep, and relief of muscle tension.
6. Meditation. To calm your mind and body, give meditation a try. Simply sit in a comfortable position and focus on your breath. Just breathe as you normally would and when the mind wanders, as it will, simply come back to the breath. Start with 5 minutes in the morning or anytime you want some calm, and increase as you feel comfortable, working your way up to 20 minutes a day.
You’ll find that taking time to actively relax each day can help guide you towards a happier, healthier life. What ways do you actively relax or will you try today?
To your health & happiness,
xoxo
Amy
“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax".
- Mark Black -