Ideas on how to relax
Beat Stress in as Little as Five Minutes
Your inbox just loaded with several emails marked urgent, you’ve a project deadline by EOD, and your mom just called to find out if chicken is gluten-free. It would be an understatement to say your nerves might be a little jangled.
Before you go all Jessie Spano, a few minutes might be all you need to chill and regain your focus.
We’ve rounded up 40 ways to relax and relieve stress, fast.
1. Get your green tea on
This herbal tonic gives you the benefits of L-Theanine, a chemical that can help reduce the body’s stress responses White DJ, et al. (2016). Anti-stress, behavioural and magnetoencephalography effects of an l-Theanine-based nutrient drink: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. DOI: 10.3390/nu8010053 . Plus just staring at a mug of the green liquid on your desk might calm you, too, thanks to the earthy color’s ability to soothe vKurt S, et al. (2014). The effects of color on the moods of college students. DOI: 10.1177/2158244014525423.
2. Chillax with some chocolate
When you need a quick break, break off a square of dark chocolate to boost your brain health and reduce stress Berk L, et al. (2018). Dark chocolate (70% organic cacao) increases acute and chronic EEG power spectral density (μV2) response of gamma frequency (25–40 Hz) for brain health: enhancement of neuroplasticity, neural synchrony, cognitive processing, learning, memory, recall, and mindfulness meditation. DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.2018.32.1_supplement.878.10. As an added bonus, dark chocolate is lower in sugar than milk chocolate, but it hits the sweet tooth sweet spot.
3. Help yourself to a little honey
The amber elixir from our buzzy friends may help relieve anxiety, fight off depression, and even protect the brain Rahman MM, et al. (2014). Neurological effects of honey: Current and future prospects. DOI: 10.1155/2014/958721.
Drizzle honey in your tea, coffee, yogurt, or just go straight for the jar with a spoon. The sweet stuff also works for a quick energy boost.
4. Go tropical
Take a five-minute break to peel, slice, and bite into a juicy mango. Weird fact: Mangos contain a compound called linalool, the main ingredient in lavender essential oil. And you know what lavender does — ahhhhh. It may reduce stress and anxiety de Cássia da Silveira e Sá R, et al. (2017). Analgesic-like activity of essential oil constituents: An update. DOI: 10.3390/ijms18122392.
5. Chomp some chewing gum
Maybe you’re stuck in annoying traffic, frantically cleaning the house before your in-laws show, or hammering out that final term paper. Chewing gum is an easy way to keep the stress monster at bay while potentially boosting your mood and productivity Allen AP, et al. (2015). Chewing gum: Cognitive performance, mood, well-being, and associated physiology. DOI: 10.1155/2015/654806.
6. Crunch and munch
Instead of clenching your jaw, may as well put it to work. Trail mix, an apple, or some celery sticks provide a satisfying crunch to curb your spiral.
7. Meditate
No need to go on a week-long silent retreat with zen-looking yogis to snag some serenity. It doesn’t require completely clearing your mind, either. You can meditate in as little as one minute with visualization techniques. Give it a go before that meeting where you know Gretchen’s going to get on your nerves.
8. Get your head below your heart
Put your head between your knees, or stand and hang your head and arms toward your toes. Getting your noggin below your heart has restorative effects on the autonomic nervous system (ANS), lessening your reactivity to the fight-or-flight response Papp ME, et al. (2013). Increased heart rate variability but no effect on blood pressure from 8 weeks of hatha yoga – a pilot study. DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-6-59.
9. Connect with your breath
You’re probably already breathing — unless you’re holding your breath. We tend do that when we’re in a tizzy. Whether you’re holding in your air, taking shallow sips of it, or hyperventilating, you might be adding to the stress response in your body.
The good news is that taking slow, full breaths can calm you. Try a quick breathing exercise to get back to a more relaxed state.
10. Give yourself a squeeze
You know how your cat will go all rigid for a second, tensing all those kitty muscles and then relaxing them? That looks kind of good, right? Well, you can try it too — or a version of it anyway.
Progressive relaxation involves tensing and releasing muscles, body part by body part. You may not have time to do your whole frame in five minutes, but just arms, shoulders, neck, and head will suffice.
11. Say your ABC’s backward
Nope, it’s not an IQ test, but it is a strangely reliable way to chill. Saying the alphabet in reverse temporarily shifts your focus from worrying about your upcoming date or pending performance review. It’s fine to play tricks on yourself once in a while. Counting backward can also do the trick.
12. Visualize what you want or need
Creative visualization is a mindfulness exercise developed by Shakti Gawain in her book Creative Visualization . The technique involves mentally imagining what you want to happen in your life, or how you want to feel. It can slay stress fast.
13. Close your peepers
A little darkness behind your lids can help shut out the external factors causing you trouble. Stressors may look a little different when you open your eyes, ready to face the world again.
14. Massage your hands
Rather than wringing your hands with worry, treat them to a little TLC instead. Just a five-minute hand massage could help relieve anxiety, one study shows Nazari R, et al. (2012). Effects of hand massage on anxiety in patients undergoing ophthalmology surgery using local anesthesia. DOI: 10.5681/jcs.2012.019.
Rub your favorite cream into your palms. Massage each joint and the webbing between each finger. Clench and release your fists. Then flex your wrists. The stretch will help relieve tension from endlessly tapping at your keyboard or scrolling through your phone.
15. Try acupressure
When you’re already stressed, the last thing you might want is more pressure. But acupressure may help alleviate anxiety, according to a recent study W H Au D, et al. (2018). Effects of Acupressure on Anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2014-010720.
Acupressure is like the non-poke-y version of acupuncture. It aims to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Use your fingers to find the two divots where your neck muscles attach to your skull. Press firmly for 15 seconds to relieve neck tension.
16. Roll a tennis ball under your feet
Borrow Fido’s gross toy for just a minute, unless it’s got slobber on it. A lacrosse or golf ball will do the trick too. Gently roll the ball under your arches, stopping to apply more pressure when you find a tender spot.
17. Take your frustration out on a stress ball
It’s OK to be angry at times. Stress can bring on rage, and what’s important is how you deal with that fiery emotion. It might be tempting to throw your laptop out the nearest office window or lay on your horn in traffic, but squeezing a stress ball is a safer — and cheaper — option.
18. Splash cold water on your face
Head to the loo and turn on the cold tap. Cool your hands and face with H2O and dab some on your pulse points. Cold water has an energizing effect. But it can also calm you if you’re body temp is rising after a sticky convo with your partner or a beef with your boss.
19. Massage your scalp
Is your to-do list making you want to pull your hair out? Hair tugging is actually a massage therapy technique that can help reduce head tension and bring on relaxation. Pull your hair gently so that you feel the scalp lift slightly. Follow up with a light massage of the scalp.
20.
Find some alone timeA hot soak in the company of bath bombs and candles might sound perfect, but any space that gives you privacy will work. All you need is five minutes of alone time to get you a wee bit closer to calm.
21. Zen out and zone out
If your cubicle is less than calming, take a minute to find a spot that is. Sit beneath a tree, for example. If you can’t escape, add something soothing to your space. Maybe that’s an aromatic cup of herbal tea or a cozy sweater. Or just focus on your potted plant for a spell and breathe.
22. Get some rays
Need a slightly sunnier outlook? Seek out some natural light — no not the beer. Sunlight, whether through a window or outside, can douse your worries An M, et al. (2016). Why we need more nature at work: Effects of natural elements and sunlight on employee mental health and work attitudes. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155614.
23. Stare out the window
Give yourself permission to do absolutely nothing but gaze. Looking at nature scenes like trees and public parks can be more relaxing than staring at a tech screen. But even if nature is nowhere near, just viewing the outside world for a few minutes might get you out of your own head.
24. Wrangle clutter
If you’re feeling scattered, it could be because clutter has taken over. Sort the files on your computer desktop. If you’re not at work, do a five-minute refresh of whatever space you’re in for a new outlook. Maybe that just means making the bed.
25. Put your feet up
If you’ve been sitting all day, the “legs up the wall” yoga pose will rejuvenate sluggish calves or feet and much more. The restorative effects of the posture can help settle both body and mind.
26. Stretch it out
You don’t need a 90-minute yoga session to reap the benefits of stretching. You can do it when you’ve got to stay put anywhere or when you’re on the go.
27. Get your heart rate up
The hustle and bustle of the day can you leave you feeling burnt out. Getting the blood and endorphins flowing can reinvigorate you to tackle whatever task is at hand.
Bust out some burpees, jumping jacks, or push-ups. Or just jog in place. Even brief bouts of exercise can help beat stress.
28. Go for a stroll
Walk to the coffee shop for your favorite pick-me-up, or take Fluffy out to stretch his legs. A quick cruise around the block combines exercise with a change of scenery for a double whammy against worry.
29. Write it down
Putting your feelings on the page provides an outlet for what’s on your mind. Try journaling about debt, work worries, or even peeves about your partner or roommate. Seeing the words might just give you a new perspective.
30. Listen to your favorite tunes
Surely you have a Spotify playlist to pep you up or soothe your soul. Crank it. Just listening to music has relaxation benefits, one study shows Linnemann A, et al. (2015). Music listening as a means of stress reduction in daily life. DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.06.008.And if you’re not going to bug anyone else, go ahead and sing along. You know you want to.
31. Bust a move
Losing yourself in the beat can help you shake stress off. Plus, dancing gets the blood flowing for a reenergizing rush of oxygen.
32. Do a crossword puzzle
Number 10 across: Anxious, overwhelmed, or freaked out (seven letters). If you guessed “stressed,” you’re in good shape to kill it at a crossword. Brain games that require concentration can take your mind off whatever’s eating you.
33. Smell the flowers
Really, stop and sniff ’em. Keep a fresh jar of your favorite variety near your workspace or in the living room, and take a whiff whenever stress strikes.
34. Try aromatherapy
It takes just a minute to drip some lavender, frankincense, or another essential oil into a diffuser. Or, mix a few drops into your favorite carrier oil (such as jojoba), rub into your hands, and inhale. The soothing scents may help send stress and anxiety packing by stimulating receptors in the nose that connect to the part of the brain that regulates emotions.
35. Sniff citrus
Head for the crisper. The odor of sweet orange can help decrease symptoms of anxiety and improve mood, research shows Dosoky NS, et al. (2018). Biological activities and safety of citrus spp. essential oils. DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071966. Take your time and peel a nice juicy one for a dose of calm.
36. Brew some beans
Wake up and smell the cortado or head to the break room to get your bean on. Just the odor of coffee can make you feel better — not to mention the caffeine. And the act of making it or standing in the latte line temporarily pulls you away from whatever’s causing you stress.
Don’t have too much of course, or you’ll go from jazzed to jitters.
37. Cuddle with a furry friend
Schedule some immediate hang time with your four-legged bestie. Pets can boost self-esteem and even ease the sting of social rejection.
38. Laugh
Cue up some YouTube videos. Nothing busts a bad mood quite as well as the giggles. Even science says laughter is the best medicine. But you can see for yourself. Get a load of these fitness-obsessed felines for a few chuckles.
39. Talk to a pal
Talking out your feelings with a ride-or-die friend can put your mind at ease and let you know someone genuinely cares. If you’re pressed for time, even a quick back-and-forth text session can be a lifeline.
40. Start planning some time off
Crashing waves, warm sand, a gentle breeze ruffling your hair. Well, at least the image is nice. Take a break from work and browse for vacation spots. Part of the fun is planning the trip, anyway. Plus, knowing you’ll get an escape soon can help you power through a tough time.
If that beach vacay — or even a staycay — isn’t on the hook right now or soon, you can still find stress relief in just five minutes whenever you need it.
But living in a perpetual state of stress isn’t sustainable. So be sure to schedule longer respites too when you can. Snag 30 minutes at the gym or a grab brunch with your BFFs, whatever gets you to the right level of chill.
Beat Stress in as Little as Five Minutes
Your inbox just loaded with several emails marked urgent, you’ve a project deadline by EOD, and your mom just called to find out if chicken is gluten-free. It would be an understatement to say your nerves might be a little jangled.
Before you go all Jessie Spano, a few minutes might be all you need to chill and regain your focus.
We’ve rounded up 40 ways to relax and relieve stress, fast.
1. Get your green tea on
This herbal tonic gives you the benefits of L-Theanine, a chemical that can help reduce the body’s stress responses White DJ, et al. (2016). Anti-stress, behavioural and magnetoencephalography effects of an l-Theanine-based nutrient drink: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. DOI: 10.3390/nu8010053. Plus just staring at a mug of the green liquid on your desk might calm you, too, thanks to the earthy color’s ability to soothe vKurt S, et al. (2014). The effects of color on the moods of college students. DOI: 10.1177/2158244014525423.
2. Chillax with some chocolate
When you need a quick break, break off a square of dark chocolate to boost your brain health and reduce stress Berk L, et al. (2018). Dark chocolate (70% organic cacao) increases acute and chronic EEG power spectral density (μV2) response of gamma frequency (25–40 Hz) for brain health: enhancement of neuroplasticity, neural synchrony, cognitive processing, learning, memory, recall, and mindfulness meditation. DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.2018.32.1_supplement.878.10. As an added bonus, dark chocolate is lower in sugar than milk chocolate, but it hits the sweet tooth sweet spot.
3. Help yourself to a little honey
The amber elixir from our buzzy friends may help relieve anxiety, fight off depression, and even protect the brain Rahman MM, et al. (2014). Neurological effects of honey: Current and future prospects. DOI: 10. 1155/2014/958721.
Drizzle honey in your tea, coffee, yogurt, or just go straight for the jar with a spoon. The sweet stuff also works for a quick energy boost.
4. Go tropical
Take a five-minute break to peel, slice, and bite into a juicy mango. Weird fact: Mangos contain a compound called linalool, the main ingredient in lavender essential oil. And you know what lavender does — ahhhhh. It may reduce stress and anxiety de Cássia da Silveira e Sá R, et al. (2017). Analgesic-like activity of essential oil constituents: An update. DOI: 10.3390/ijms18122392.
5. Chomp some chewing gum
Maybe you’re stuck in annoying traffic, frantically cleaning the house before your in-laws show, or hammering out that final term paper. Chewing gum is an easy way to keep the stress monster at bay while potentially boosting your mood and productivity Allen AP, et al. (2015). Chewing gum: Cognitive performance, mood, well-being, and associated physiology. DOI: 10.1155/2015/654806.
6. Crunch and munch
Instead of clenching your jaw, may as well put it to work. Trail mix, an apple, or some celery sticks provide a satisfying crunch to curb your spiral.
7. Meditate
No need to go on a week-long silent retreat with zen-looking yogis to snag some serenity. It doesn’t require completely clearing your mind, either. You can meditate in as little as one minute with visualization techniques. Give it a go before that meeting where you know Gretchen’s going to get on your nerves.
8. Get your head below your heart
Put your head between your knees, or stand and hang your head and arms toward your toes. Getting your noggin below your heart has restorative effects on the autonomic nervous system (ANS), lessening your reactivity to the fight-or-flight response Papp ME, et al. (2013). Increased heart rate variability but no effect on blood pressure from 8 weeks of hatha yoga – a pilot study. DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-6-59.
9. Connect with your breath
You’re probably already breathing — unless you’re holding your breath. We tend do that when we’re in a tizzy. Whether you’re holding in your air, taking shallow sips of it, or hyperventilating, you might be adding to the stress response in your body.
The good news is that taking slow, full breaths can calm you. Try a quick breathing exercise to get back to a more relaxed state.
10. Give yourself a squeeze
You know how your cat will go all rigid for a second, tensing all those kitty muscles and then relaxing them? That looks kind of good, right? Well, you can try it too — or a version of it anyway.
Progressive relaxation involves tensing and releasing muscles, body part by body part. You may not have time to do your whole frame in five minutes, but just arms, shoulders, neck, and head will suffice.
11. Say your ABC’s backward
Nope, it’s not an IQ test, but it is a strangely reliable way to chill. Saying the alphabet in reverse temporarily shifts your focus from worrying about your upcoming date or pending performance review. It’s fine to play tricks on yourself once in a while. Counting backward can also do the trick.
12. Visualize what you want or need
Creative visualization is a mindfulness exercise developed by Shakti Gawain in her book Creative Visualization. The technique involves mentally imagining what you want to happen in your life, or how you want to feel. It can slay stress fast.
13. Close your peepers
A little darkness behind your lids can help shut out the external factors causing you trouble. Stressors may look a little different when you open your eyes, ready to face the world again.
14. Massage your hands
Rather than wringing your hands with worry, treat them to a little TLC instead. Just a five-minute hand massage could help relieve anxiety, one study shows Nazari R, et al. (2012). Effects of hand massage on anxiety in patients undergoing ophthalmology surgery using local anesthesia. DOI: 10.5681/jcs.2012.019.
Rub your favorite cream into your palms. Massage each joint and the webbing between each finger. Clench and release your fists. Then flex your wrists. The stretch will help relieve tension from endlessly tapping at your keyboard or scrolling through your phone.
15. Try acupressure
When you’re already stressed, the last thing you might want is more pressure. But acupressure may help alleviate anxiety, according to a recent study W H Au D, et al. (2018). Effects of Acupressure on Anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2014-010720.
Acupressure is like the non-poke-y version of acupuncture. It aims to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Use your fingers to find the two divots where your neck muscles attach to your skull. Press firmly for 15 seconds to relieve neck tension.
16. Roll a tennis ball under your feet
Borrow Fido’s gross toy for just a minute, unless it’s got slobber on it. A lacrosse or golf ball will do the trick too. Gently roll the ball under your arches, stopping to apply more pressure when you find a tender spot.
17. Take your frustration out on a stress ball
It’s OK to be angry at times. Stress can bring on rage, and what’s important is how you deal with that fiery emotion. It might be tempting to throw your laptop out the nearest office window or lay on your horn in traffic, but squeezing a stress ball is a safer — and cheaper — option.
18. Splash cold water on your face
Head to the loo and turn on the cold tap. Cool your hands and face with H2O and dab some on your pulse points. Cold water has an energizing effect. But it can also calm you if you’re body temp is rising after a sticky convo with your partner or a beef with your boss.
19. Massage your scalp
Is your to-do list making you want to pull your hair out? Hair tugging is actually a massage therapy technique that can help reduce head tension and bring on relaxation. Pull your hair gently so that you feel the scalp lift slightly. Follow up with a light massage of the scalp.
20.
Find some alone timeA hot soak in the company of bath bombs and candles might sound perfect, but any space that gives you privacy will work. All you need is five minutes of alone time to get you a wee bit closer to calm.
21. Zen out and zone out
If your cubicle is less than calming, take a minute to find a spot that is. Sit beneath a tree, for example. If you can’t escape, add something soothing to your space. Maybe that’s an aromatic cup of herbal tea or a cozy sweater. Or just focus on your potted plant for a spell and breathe.
22. Get some rays
Need a slightly sunnier outlook? Seek out some natural light — no not the beer. Sunlight, whether through a window or outside, can douse your worries An M, et al. (2016). Why we need more nature at work: Effects of natural elements and sunlight on employee mental health and work attitudes. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155614.
23. Stare out the window
Give yourself permission to do absolutely nothing but gaze. Looking at nature scenes like trees and public parks can be more relaxing than staring at a tech screen. But even if nature is nowhere near, just viewing the outside world for a few minutes might get you out of your own head.
24. Wrangle clutter
If you’re feeling scattered, it could be because clutter has taken over. Sort the files on your computer desktop. If you’re not at work, do a five-minute refresh of whatever space you’re in for a new outlook. Maybe that just means making the bed.
25. Put your feet up
If you’ve been sitting all day, the “legs up the wall” yoga pose will rejuvenate sluggish calves or feet and much more. The restorative effects of the posture can help settle both body and mind.
26. Stretch it out
You don’t need a 90-minute yoga session to reap the benefits of stretching. You can do it when you’ve got to stay put anywhere or when you’re on the go.
27. Get your heart rate up
The hustle and bustle of the day can you leave you feeling burnt out. Getting the blood and endorphins flowing can reinvigorate you to tackle whatever task is at hand.
Bust out some burpees, jumping jacks, or push-ups. Or just jog in place. Even brief bouts of exercise can help beat stress.
28. Go for a stroll
Walk to the coffee shop for your favorite pick-me-up, or take Fluffy out to stretch his legs. A quick cruise around the block combines exercise with a change of scenery for a double whammy against worry.
29. Write it down
Putting your feelings on the page provides an outlet for what’s on your mind. Try journaling about debt, work worries, or even peeves about your partner or roommate. Seeing the words might just give you a new perspective.
30. Listen to your favorite tunes
Surely you have a Spotify playlist to pep you up or soothe your soul. Crank it. Just listening to music has relaxation benefits, one study shows Linnemann A, et al. (2015). Music listening as a means of stress reduction in daily life. DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.06.008.And if you’re not going to bug anyone else, go ahead and sing along. You know you want to.
31. Bust a move
Losing yourself in the beat can help you shake stress off. Plus, dancing gets the blood flowing for a reenergizing rush of oxygen.
32. Do a crossword puzzle
Number 10 across: Anxious, overwhelmed, or freaked out (seven letters). If you guessed “stressed,” you’re in good shape to kill it at a crossword. Brain games that require concentration can take your mind off whatever’s eating you.
33. Smell the flowers
Really, stop and sniff ’em. Keep a fresh jar of your favorite variety near your workspace or in the living room, and take a whiff whenever stress strikes.
34. Try aromatherapy
It takes just a minute to drip some lavender, frankincense, or another essential oil into a diffuser. Or, mix a few drops into your favorite carrier oil (such as jojoba), rub into your hands, and inhale. The soothing scents may help send stress and anxiety packing by stimulating receptors in the nose that connect to the part of the brain that regulates emotions.
35. Sniff citrus
Head for the crisper. The odor of sweet orange can help decrease symptoms of anxiety and improve mood, research shows Dosoky NS, et al. (2018). Biological activities and safety of citrus spp. essential oils. DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071966. Take your time and peel a nice juicy one for a dose of calm.
36. Brew some beans
Wake up and smell the cortado or head to the break room to get your bean on. Just the odor of coffee can make you feel better — not to mention the caffeine. And the act of making it or standing in the latte line temporarily pulls you away from whatever’s causing you stress.
Don’t have too much of course, or you’ll go from jazzed to jitters.
37. Cuddle with a furry friend
Schedule some immediate hang time with your four-legged bestie. Pets can boost self-esteem and even ease the sting of social rejection.
38. Laugh
Cue up some YouTube videos. Nothing busts a bad mood quite as well as the giggles. Even science says laughter is the best medicine. But you can see for yourself. Get a load of these fitness-obsessed felines for a few chuckles.
39. Talk to a pal
Talking out your feelings with a ride-or-die friend can put your mind at ease and let you know someone genuinely cares. If you’re pressed for time, even a quick back-and-forth text session can be a lifeline.
40. Start planning some time off
Crashing waves, warm sand, a gentle breeze ruffling your hair. Well, at least the image is nice. Take a break from work and browse for vacation spots. Part of the fun is planning the trip, anyway. Plus, knowing you’ll get an escape soon can help you power through a tough time.
If that beach vacay — or even a staycay — isn’t on the hook right now or soon, you can still find stress relief in just five minutes whenever you need it.
But living in a perpetual state of stress isn’t sustainable. So be sure to schedule longer respites too when you can. Snag 30 minutes at the gym or a grab brunch with your BFFs, whatever gets you to the right level of chill.
7 effective ways to quickly relax
Health
Frame from the film "Pretty Woman"
© kinopoisk.ru
Author Natalya Germanovich
January 08, 2021
Often, even during the New Year holidays, we remain in suspense, which we relieve with alcohol, social networks or TV shows until the morning. We tell you how to learn to deeply relax with health benefits. Start on holidays and practice throughout the year
Why is it important to rest and relax properly? Among the health benefits, doctors note a decrease in blood pressure, improved digestion, maintenance of normal blood sugar levels, reduced activity of stress hormones, improved sleep concentration and mood [1]. nine0003
There are many techniques to relieve stress. We have selected the most effective and accessible to almost everyone.
1. Magnesium sulfate baths
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Salt has a positive effect not only on health, but also on skin and hair. The substance consists of magnesium, sulfur, water and oxygen. Together, these elements have a positive effect on the body: they improve sleep and memory, and help the nervous system [2].
After such a bath, a person feels not only relaxation, but also physical and emotional lightness. Doctors often prescribe magnesium baths for those who are subject to frequent stress and emotional stress. 0.5-1 kg of salt must be dissolved in water at a temperature of 36-38°C. The bath should be taken in a sitting position for 15-20 minutes, and then rinsed. Before the procedure, you should carefully read the list of contraindications. The bath is not advised to take with varicose veins, allergies, high intracranial pressure and skin diseases. nine0003
2. Initial set of tai chi exercises
Initially, tai chi is considered a type of wushu, a Chinese martial art. However, now this practice is used as a recreational gymnastics by people of all ages. The peculiarity of the initial set of exercises is slow movements that are not characteristic of us in ordinary life. Due to this, the body experiences tension, the muscles work, but the person does not feel an intense load. It is through this effect that relaxation is achieved, which appears at the end of the workout. The main secret of the initial course of tai chi is to keep your back straight, breathe through your nose and allow the body to take postures. The followers of this school call such exercises "meditation in motion", when a person releases consciousness and focuses only on the sensations of the body. What matters in practice is not how accurately you perform the movements, but how regularly you use it. In the beginning, 5-10 minutes a day may be enough. nine0003
initial set of Tai Chi exercises
3. Self-massage
This exercise is suitable for those who, even during the holidays, cannot tear themselves away from the computer. In such cases, tension accumulates in the neck and shoulders. First you need to stretch, turning your head so that the muscles become more receptive to touch. Then, with your left hand, massage your right shoulder and neck strongly. Start with light circular motions, rubbing the muscles with your index and middle fingers. Finish with a firmer massage, squeezing the shoulder and neck muscles between your thumb and other fingers. Do the same with the left side of the neck and shoulder. Tilt your head to the left, feel for a point at the base of the skull and massage it in a circular motion, gradually going down to the shoulder. Repeat three times, then switch sides. If you have any pain in the body, before starting the practice, it is better to consult a specialist. nine0003
neck and shoulder self-massage
4. Art therapy
One of the laziest ways to relieve stress. However, you don't need to be able to draw. You can just buy or download a coloring book from the Internet, take felt-tip pens and remember your childhood. In fact, this simple practice allows you not only to disconnect from obsessive thoughts and problems, but also to develop both hemispheres of the brain. In parallel, you train the ability to focus and pay attention to details. If you want to draw something yourself, even better. The simplest technique is to start working with a pencil or brush without thinking. Let at first it will be some abstract figures, then the objects will begin to take shape. Then you can depict in detail some problem that worries you and draw it until you get tired. Thus, all the negative will be on paper, which can then simply be crumpled up and thrown away. nine0003
art therapy practice
5. Breathing techniques
You can also relax, get rid of anxiety and depressive symptoms with the help of breathing [3]. The Sama Vritti Pranayama exercise aims to produce equally long inhalations and exhalations so that you feel the air circulating inside your body. With a uniform score, this is somewhere between a three and a five, inclusive. The main thing is that you are comfortable.
Choosing a comfortable sitting position. We breathe through the nose. And we start counting so that inhalation and exhalation end with the same number. You can complicate the exercise a little and add a small pause at the end of each cycle. The exercise must be performed for at least five minutes. During the day, it can be repeated two or three more times. nine0003
breathing practice for relaxation
6. Meditation
Perhaps one of the most popular mental exercise techniques. It is used by idols of all generations: Paul McCartney, George Lucas, Moby and even Chuck Norris. The effect of this practice has been scientifically proven thousands of times. [4]
Studies show that the practice of meditation not only helps to cope with stress and anxiety, but even in some cases can be no less effective than antidepressants. On the Web you can find a large selection of different directions, including modern ones, without esoteric practices. To meditate, you need to sit in a quiet comfortable place and try to focus in the moment without getting involved in the thoughts that will come to mind. If you can’t do it yourself, you can use audio and video materials. For example, the Monterey Bay Marine Research Institute made a series of meditations with rare marine life. It allows you to relax while watching life at the bottom of the ocean, or you can close your eyes and perceive only sound. nine0003
meditation with marine life
7. Deep muscle relaxation
Tension in the body is one of the primary effects of stress and anxiety. This often leads to unpleasant responses from the whole organism. The main goal of this relaxation practice is to make a person feel the difference between different muscle states and learn how to relax them faster. Get into a comfortable lying or sitting position. You will need to consistently tighten and relax the muscles of the whole body. For example, they strained the stomach for 5 seconds - let go, waited 15-20 seconds and moved on to the next muscle group. And so you need to work out the whole body. nine0003
deep muscle relaxation
See also: 7 quick ways to calm your nerves
10 ways to relax after work
Waking up early is a soul-destroying idea in itself. Everyone knows how exhausting it is to spend a whole day at work. And we all need some rest after a long and hectic day, but work consumes so much time and effort that in the end we are too tired to do anything else but rest.
But there are many ways to help you relax. Here are 10 of the best ways to unwind after work.
10. Long bath
There is nothing more relaxing than a pleasant warm bath after a tiring day. Taking a hot shower or soaking in warm water will relax the muscles and increase blood circulation in the body, calming the soul and mind.
Add some essential oils to your water to experience the magic of aromatherapy. Light scented candles, add bubble bath, turn on soothing music if you wish, and let your body enter total relaxation mode
9. Light exercise
Not everyone wants to crawl into bed after a long, tiring day. Because a lot of people don't like the idea of sitting at home doing nothing. They are an active group of people, always looking for something exciting and exciting. For these energetic enthusiasts, the best way to unwind is with a light workout.
Go to the gym, stretch or go for a run in the park. Even playing your favorite games will knock out fatigue and calm you down; be it badminton, table tennis or football. Swimming is another amazing way to relieve stress. So if you like swimming, you should probably go to the pool to relax a bit! nine0003
8. Did someone say food?
When you're swamped with work all day, you have little or no time to eat. As the saying goes, a hungry man is an evil man. Thus, a great way to calm an anxious body is to eat healthy, delicious food! Treat yourself to filling and energizing foods like chocolate and ice cream.
Prepare a delicious meal that will satisfy your hunger; if you are too tired, just order food. A cup of herbal tea can also have a magical effect, making you feel more relaxed. If you return home very late, then have a hearty dinner, you will sleep better on a full stomach. nine0003
7. Looking for a company
Spending time with your loved ones has a significant impact. It automatically makes you feel better. Spend more time with family and friends, tell them about your day; sharing with them will make it easier. If you live alone, video chat with friends or family who live far away.
6. Walk
Sitting at home doing nothing can cause laziness and apathy. Get out of the house. After all, there are so many places to explore. Go on a picnic with friends, go to the movies, or enjoy a delicious meal at some fancy restaurant. nine0003
Get yourself out into nature. Go for a long and relaxing walk in the park. Spending time in nature helps restore mental energy. Being outdoors will make you feel calmer and more collected.
5. Read a book
Books are truly our best friends. They will always be there. If you are not very sociable and you enjoy reading, then immersing yourself in a good book is the best option for you. After a tiring day at work, take a shower, change into comfortable clothes, and read a good book or magazine. nine0003
Snuggle up under the covers, sip a hot cup of coffee and enjoy a pleasant read. It's also the best way to get ready for bed.
4. Listen to music
Music is the greatest cure for almost everything. Listening to music has countless health benefits, making it a great stress reliever. Not only can it boost mood, but it can also improve sleep quality, reduce stress, induce a meditative state, relieve anxiety, and ease any signs of depression. nine0003
So put together a playlist of your favorite songs, plug in your headphones and listen to the tracks. You can listen to any music you like as long as it promotes positive and calm emotions.
3. Take a nap
Sometimes you get too tired to do anything after work. In such cases, napping is definitely a smart way to relax, as it greatly reduces stress levels. Thanks to it, you can wake up feeling refreshed in a very short amount of time. If you want to sleep longer without waking up right away, going to bed early is a smarter option. Make sure you feel comfortable before bed. If possible, do not use the phone, turn off the lights, turn on calm music if you wish. You can also use scented candles to help you sleep better. nine0003
2. Take up your hobby
Take some time out of your busy schedule to practice your favorite hobbies. You need to unwind after work and doing what you love will make you happy and help you relax better. If you love to sing, sing with all your heart; bake cupcakes or cakes; learn pottery or drawing; watch your favorite TV shows; take up embroidery; or go on a long trip with friends.
During leisurely activities, there is a significant reduction in stress levels, and mental and physical health will be in excellent shape. In fact, these relaxing activities are just as important to your health as exercise. They improve overall health.
1. Treat yourself to a spa
You've had a hard day at work.