Relaxation is key to reducing excess stress and its effects. Here are some

ideas which may help.

muscle tension, worry and mental confusion. This may be one of the

few times you slow down and notice what it feels like to relax. This

actually helps you program yourself to tune into those feelings and

encourage your body and mind to let go of stress and tension.

knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Support your neck with a pillow

if you prefer. Scan your body, noticing where you feel tension or

discomfort. Breathe slowly into these areas. Imagine relaxation

flooding into the areas of discomfort. Begin by practicing ten minutes

once a day.

technique you learn in a class or other group, but in the meantime,

try this. Silently repeat a word that has little emotional meaning for

you, such as “one.” Give it your full attention. When other thoughts

or images come into your mind, ignore them and return your focus to

the unspoken word. Don’t strain or try too hard. Simply let your

mind keep coming back to your chosen word again and again as

thoughts pass through your mind.

Exhale completely, squeezing the belly tight. Begin by practicing for

5 minutes at a time. Try it when you feel anxious or can’t sleep.

or ylang-ylang for relaxation. Or just soak your feet. Add Epsom

salts to a bathtub or basin of warm water and enjoy!

you develop self-regulation over the mental and physical processes

that are associated with stress-related disorders.

your neck forward and stretch it from side to side. Then circle your

shoulders slowly under the hot water.

as “Shoulders free” or “Neck relaxed.” Repeat the suggestion, but

don’t strain or do anything at all but say the phrase. This plants an

idea which may gently support muscle relaxation.

relieves many of the effects of stress.