Easy relaxation tips to practice at home
For those of us that live stressful and hectic lives (and who doesn't?), relaxing means flopping down on the couch at the end of the day, or sleeping in on the weekend. However, these acts don't do a lot to mitigate the effects of stress on body and mind. To fight stress, we need to trigger the body's relaxation response; this can be done through visualization, deep breathing exercises, yoga and meditation. Finding ways to fit relaxation into your day can boost your mood and energy, and reduce overall stress.
A certain amount of stress is a part of life. It's required for learning, creativity and even survival- it's only detrimental when it interrupts the balance of your nervous system. A sense of overwhelming stress has become a part of modern life; when stress throws your nervous system off balance, home relaxation techniques can trigger the all-important relaxation response, a state of calm.
When stress harms your nervous system, your body is inundated with chemicals that produce a "fight or flight" response. While that response is a lifesaver in emergencies, it can wear you down if it happens every day. The body's relaxation response can stop the fight or flight response, and bring your body and mind back in equilibrium.
There are a variety of relaxation techniques that can be done in order to bring your nervous system back into alignment. Keep in mind that the relaxation response isn't about zoning out in front of the TV, but it's a mentally engaging process that leaves one focused, calm and relaxed.
Learning basic home relaxation techniques isn't hard, but it does take practice. Most experts recommend that you set aside 10-20 minutes per day for relaxation, but the most benefits are realized with at least an hour of practice. If that sounds like a lot of time, keep in mind that many of these methods can be blended into your daily routine; you can practice on your lunch break or on the way to work.
As everyone responds differently to stress, there's no one technique that works for everyone. When choosing a relaxation method, consider your fitness level, preferences, needs, and your reaction to stress. The right technique for you is the one that is able to elicit a relaxation response, and you may realize better results by combining various techniques.