Finding the best relaxation technique for you.
For many of us, relaxation means flopping on the couch and zoning out in front of the TV at the end of the day. However, this does very little to reduce the damaging effects of stress. Instead, you need to activate your body’s natural relaxation response, a state of deep rest that puts the brakes on stress, slows your breathing and heart rate, and brings your mind and body back into balance. To find the right relaxation technique for you, try these.
Deep breathing
Deep breathing is a simple yet powerful relaxation technique with its focus on full and cleansing breaths. It’s easy to learn and can be practiced anywhere and at any time when you need instant relief. Here is how to get started:
- Sit somewhere comfortable with your back straight
- Put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach
- Breathe in for your nose and feel the hand on your stomach rise
- Exhale through your mouth and feel the hand on your stomach move in
- Continue and count slowly as you exhale
Mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness has become extremely popular in recent years – and for good reason. It helps you to stay focused in the present moment, helping you to banish stress and anxiety. It can take a few sessions to calm your mind, but keep going and soon you’ll reap the rewards.
- Find a quiet place where you won’t get interrupted
- Sit somewhere comfortable and keep your back straight
- Close your eyes and find a point of focus, such as your breathing or a meaningful word that you repeat throughout the meditation
- Follow the breath all the way from the inhale through the nose, feeling the belly rise, and exhaling
- If thoughts or worries come into your head, acknowledge them and then let them go, returning your focus
Yoga
Yoga involves a series of both moving and stationary poses, combined with deep breathing. As well as reducing anxiety and stress, yoga can also improve flexibility, strength, balance, and stamina. Take up a class or follow an online tutorial to get started and learn the basics.
We hope these tips help to improve your stress levels! Taking care of your health and wellbeing should be your first priority. Contact the insurance professionals at Donald Weiss Insurance Services in Santa Monica for all of your health care coverage needs throughout Southern California.