Most Effective Relaxation Techniques for Your Body and Mind

We all know the drill by now. We get up exhausted, go to work and stress ourselves out, and then we come back home and zone out in front of our computers or TVs before we have to go to bed.

Day in, day out, the same repetitive motions occur and the anxiety builds without us even realising it. A lot of people have no idea how to deal with the stress that life imposes on them, and end up becoming constantly weary and tense.

So, what can we do to avoid that? What’s the secret to a happier, more relaxed life? Keep scrolling to learn more.

Breathing techniques

Meditation can be modified to suit a particular person’s needs, so if you don’t want to get into it fully, you can simply borrow a few techniques.

Deep breathing is one of them, and it’s something you can use regardless of where you are. Just take a moment to be alone and take deep, slow breaths for at least two minutes. Every problem will seem a little less oppressive once you’ve calmed down.

Yoga

If you are slowly slipping into depression, physical activity is one of the best ways to recover your confidence and get a boost of energy. Even if you don’t feel like it, exercising can be of immense help, so turn to soothing yoga workouts that will help you fix your posture, calm your anxiety and make you feel well-rested.

Tai chi

Tai chi is also a very relaxing form of exercise, and it brings all sorts of benefits, from better balance and flexibility, to muscle strength. It’s a good option for anyone who enjoys spirituality, and it’s the kind of workout pretty much anyone can enjoy, regardless of their level of fitness.

A glass of wine and a good book

Perhaps you’re not spiritual, and find meditation boring. That’s fine, because there are still great options, you just have to find the one that suits you. Sitting down with a good book and a glass of exquisite natural wine can be incredibly relaxing, and it lets you indulge just the right way. Pick up a great novel, sit on your comfiest sofa, and sip some nice cabernet as you let your mind take you on an adventure.

A massage

Booking an appointment with a masseuse is something everyone should treat themselves to every once in a while. You can do it right before you know you’re about to experience a stressful day, or right after as a reward for getting through it. There are also good handheld massagers that you can use on a daily basis, especially if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, or other forms of chronic pain.

Full on meditation

A lot of people are reluctant to do it, but it’s so good for you that it would be a real shame not to at least give it a try. Settle down into a comfortable position, and start taking deep breaths, just like we mentioned earlier on. Your mind doesn’t actually have to be blank, that’s not the point. Find a mantra, something as simple as the good old “om” sound, or something that’s more meaningful to you. It can be a sentence, a poem, or even a favourite quote. Focus on relaxing your body, bit by bit, and your mind will follow. Meditation is a time of mindfulness and reflexion.

Music and aromatherapy

This is something that you can do on your own, or you can incorporate it with any of the previously mentioned techniques. Light some incense and play some smooth jazz, or any other relaxing music that you like. Apps that simulate the sounds of rain and crackling fire are also great.

If we don’t take good care of ourselves, we’ll end up snapping at everyone and our lives will generally be unnecessarily more difficult. Take time to relax and indulge in your favourite activities, and you’ll feel much better.