The Top 10 Ways to Relax and Achieve Real Relaxation

The Top 10 Ways to Relax and Achieve Real Relaxation
The body follows what the mind conceives. The condition of
the mind often affects how the body performs, which
explains why people who are stressed often suffer from
accelerated aging and health problems. Unfortunately, with
today's highly frenetic society, stress is something that
cannot be completely avoided. However, there are
techniques that can help avoid or at least minimize stress.
Follow these top 10 ways to relax and give your mind and
body a good break.

1. Learn to breathe.

Breathing comes unconsciously, which sometimes encourages
us to take it for granted. Several times a day, when you
feel stress coming on or you feel tired and unenthusiastic,
do a few deep breathing exercises. Here's how:

Sit or stand with your spine straight and stretched
slightly. Then slowly take a breath at a slow count of 3
and exhale just as slowly. Allow your lungs to expand as
you take in the air and empty it as you breathe out. If it
helps to close your eyes, then do so. Fresh oxygen helps
enliven your blood and the slow breathing encourages you to
sit or stand still for a moment.

2. Stretch.

Another way you can relax is by slow stretching. Whether
you're standing or seated, make sure to keep your spine
straight and allow your arms to dangle loosely at your
side. Feet should be flat on the floor and relaxed.

Slowly raise your arms high, as if you're reaching for the
ceiling and slowly raise yourself on the ball of your feet.
Follow your hands with your eyes so your head can tilt
back. Hold this position for a count of 10 and then slowly
bring down your arms.

3. Increase your physical activities.

Or at least start one if you haven't got any exercise
regimen. Contrary to what other people think, exercising
actually helps you relax afterwards. It cleanses your body
of toxins by inducing sweat, increases your blood flow and
the flow of oxygen to the brain and it works up your
muscles.

Start slowly and gradually build up until you are able to
maintain a regular schedule.

4. Watch your diet.

What you eat affects your mood. Another great way to relax
is to maintain a diet that is rich in nutrients, such as
antioxidants, folate and omega-3 fatty acids. Eat more
fruits and vegetables and when you're thirsty, grab a
bottle of water and keep away from sodas and flavored
drinks.

5. Get enough sound sleep.

Sleep is about quality and not just quantity but in times
of stress, it's best to get as much sleep as you can.
About 6 to 8 hours should get you the rest you need.

Getting enough sleep is an excellent way to relax. It
allows your body to regroup and recover and it eases your
mind of other concerns.

6. Use music.

If music works for you, use it. Stick to soft tunes and
don't whip out that Metallica CD just yet. Rock music tends
to use heavy bass lines, hard percussions and strong
lyrics. If you're tired and want to relax, turn to easy
listening and save those faster tunes for some other time.

7. Turn away from the modern trappings of your life.

Often, some of the most relaxing things are those that are
the most basic. Once a week or at least more, turn off the
TV, unplug it and keep the remote out of easy reach. Turn
off the computer as well.

These two are common sources of distractions. Since they
show changing images and plenty of information, they can
sometimes overload the mind. Keep things simple and don't
sweat the small, insignificant stuff.

8. Have time to yourself.

A good way to relax is to set aside time for some peace and
quiet. What better way to do this than to schedule short
vacations for yourself? You don't have to pack your bags or
even leave the house - simply close the door, find a nice,
quiet place to sit and enjoy your own company.

9. Try yoga or meditation.

Yoga and meditation helps you attain a good body and mind
connection. As a result, you're more likely to feel
relaxed and refreshed. Try simple yoga steps or learn to
meditate a few minutes each day. Do these regularly and
you'll find that it will get easier to relax and manage
stress later on.

10. Laugh.

Find your sense of humor again. Be with family and friends
you can be yourself with. Laughter is one of the best ways
to relax and it doesn't have to cost a thing. It also
helps you build connections with people in your life who
really matter.

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Konstantin Koss has worked as an aerobic instructor and
trained massage therapist. He is also a certified wellness
guide.
More information about the various ways to achieve
relaxation can be found at the Real Relaxation blog.
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