Five Simple Relaxation & Stress Relieving Techniques for Busy People
August 4th, 2005 by admin | Filed under Uncategorized.In these times of business, stress, and overwhelming lists of things to do, it is important to
take time out for yourself, to regroup, breathe, relax your shoulders, and enjoy living. While I believe that yoga and meditation are excellent ways to settle the mind and body, I don’t always have the time to fit them into my schedule. Here are a few techniques I have found that take just a few moments and can improve your attitude, energy, and outlook.
1. Breathe deeply. Have you noticed that stress causes you to stop breathing deeply? Stress, upsets, and fatigue often lead to shallow breathing, which deprives the body of oxygen. The body cannot operate efficiently without an ample supply of oxygen. So stop what you’re doing, sit down, close your eyes and take 10 deep breaths, inhaling slowly through the nose for a count of 5, and exhaling, blowing out through your lips for a count of 6. Make some noise on the exhale and be conscious that you are exhaling toxins and stress from your body. Notice the sensations in your body as you fill your lungs with a fresh new supply of oxygen.
2. Roll your shoulders slowly 10 times forward and then 10 times backward. Stretch your neck to the side, reaching your right ear to your right shoulder while pushing your left shoulder toward the floor and hold for a count of 8, then switch sides. Do this at least three times per side as you continue to breathe deeply. Notice your body loosening up as the stress from your shoulders and neck disappears.
3. Buy some pure essential oil of Lavender. Put several drops of lavender in the palm of your hand and rub the oil into your shoulders. (For people with sensitive skin the oil should first be mixed with a base massage oil such as almond oil.) Lavender is naturally relaxing to the body and emotions, it does not cause drowsiness, and it has an awakening effect on mental alertness. This is a great combination for overcoming stress and fatigue at work or tension while sitting for long periods. Lavender can be rubbed into sore muscles or any place where muscle tension is felt. Avoid the eye area and sensitive areas such as underarms and groin.
4. Take a 5 minute brisk walk outside. Reading, being in front of a computer, on the phone, or near a TV screen for long periods can zap your energy, causing drowsiness and fatigue. Many people reach for a snack, soda, or caffeinated beverage at this point to counter the fatigue. Caffeine, sugar, and carbohydrate foods can give a short term boost of energy, but only to cause more severe fatigue a while later. Instead of the snack, take a lap around your block or building. Walking fast will boost your metabolism, wake up your senses, and cause your fatigue to disappear. If you can’t go outside, walk briskly around your office area or climb a few flights of stairs.
5. Drink water. It is essential to your vitality to stay hydrated. Simply drinking a glass of filtered water can boost your energy level, wake you up, and diminish stress in your body. There are many good bottled waters with added oxygen and vitamins that give an extra boost with no calories, caffeine, or carbs. Drink many glasses of water each day to keep yourself hydrated and refreshed. Are you feeling thirsty? Me too.
Waxela Sananda
spiritmama.com www.spiritmama.com
Waxela Sananda (pronounced wa-shay-la) has been on a quest for transformation for 15 years. Waxela is a wellness consultant and is currently completeing a bachelors degree in holistic nutrition. Her interests and studies include religion, metaphysics, energy balancing, shamanism, aromatherapy, Reiki, custom made jewelry, and she has a degree in visual studies design from Iowa State University. Waxela has been a retail business owner for 16 years, she currently resides in Austin Texas where she owns a web based business “Spiritmama”.
Waxela Sananda
spiritmama.com www.spiritmama.com
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