1. Breathing
Take a deep breath in slowly through your nose, filling your lungs. Hold the breath for 2-3 seconds and release through your mouth over 5 seconds. Repeat.
Breathing techniques can be used to slow your pulse after exercise, reduce stress, engage your mind during a stressful event. Breathing techniques can help during high anxiety and stress. I use them before taking a test, speaking before crowds and just before I step onto the back of a horse that is beginning training or hasn't been ridden in awhile.
2. Music
Music moves us in many ways, from the heavy metal sounds many people use to work out to to the haunting sounds of Celtic or Classical music that calls to our very soul. Find music that works for relaxing you, whatever it may be and turn it up!
3. Hiking
Hiking gets us back into nature and allows for physical activity. Both of which have been proven to help reduce stress. So grab your favorite 2-legged or 4-legged hiking buddy and hit the trails for a day or a week!
4. Gardening
One of my personal favorites! Getting in touch with the Earth and living plants that you help grow can give a person amazing satisfaction. Watching as the flowers, herbs, vegetables or fruits grow and knowing these same plants can later nourish your body. So get out there in your old clothes, big floppy hat (ok maybe that part is just me) and your gloves and get in the dirt.
5. Spa Day
Did the thought of high prices just raise your blood pressure? Not to worry, you can have a spa day at home if that's what works for you. Buy your favorite essential oil or bubble bath and soak in the tub for 20 minutes while listening to your favorite soft music. Relax and give yourself the ability to let go of everything for awhile and melt away.
These are just 5 techniques to relax and let go of the stress from the day, week or month. Everyone deserves 10-20 minutes alone everyday if possible. This is time for a person to relax, refocus and regain clarity in your life in this crazy, hectic world we live in.
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