Stress is part of life, but it’s also not great for our health. That’s why learning to relax can help us feel energized and re-centered. Plus, when you incorporate relaxation techniques into a regular routine, they become easier and more effective over time.
Breathing exercises are one of the most basic and easiest ways to engage our body’s natural relaxation response. Sit or lie down in a quiet, safe place, put your hand on your belly and begin to breathe in deeply. Slowly count to three, and then slowly breathe out to the same number. Repeat this process for five minutes or as long as needed to calm your mind and body.
For kids, try squeezing something (like a ball, stuffed animal or mound of clay). This can help them let out some of that pent-up tension and shift their attention onto the object they’re squeezing rather than the thing that’s causing them anxiety. You could also use a guided meditation created for adults, or progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and relaxing different groups of muscles, one at a time.
Listening to soothing music can also help you relax by connecting your emotions to the sounds and distracting you from worrisome thoughts. Whether you prefer classical or country, find a song that makes you happy and take a moment to really listen to it. You may be surprised to find that you can hear specific instruments or beats, or feel the rhythm move through your body.
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