Of course a nice long vacation can be very relaxing, but that’s not always possible, so here are some other ideas you can try to bring about relaxation.

1. Progressive relaxation – a method where you visualize a certain muscle or set of muscles, tense them tightly, hold and relax. This is useful for those times when you can feel the stress in your body and have just a minute to try to relieve it. Of course, it’s a real treat to tense and relax every area of the body when you have a little more time.

2. Breathe deeply – close your eyes, if possible, and breathe in through your nose slowly, much deeper than usual. When you think you’ve breathed in as far as possible, go a little further! Then breath out through your mouth. Once again, go further than you thought possible. You will find that tension has been noticeably lessened.

3. Breathe rhythmically – Oftentimes we breathe quick, shallow breaths while we are under stress. It’s amazing how much relaxation occurs when you make an effort to slow the breathing down to about 5 or 6 seconds in, 5 or 6 seconds out

4. Music – this really affects your state of mind. Try listening to soothing music or specially created sounds (crickets chirping, waves rolling in etc). It’s pleasurable to do some deep breathing and/or progressive relaxation exercises while having the music or sounds going in the background.

5. Visualized breathing – make time to do this occasionally and you will reap great benefits. Find a place that is free from distractions or noise and close your eyes, relax your jaw. While you breathe slowly use your imagination to see the tension leaving your body each time you exhale and relaxation coming in to take its place with every deep breath you take.

6. Guided imagery – With your eyes closed become aware of all the negative self-talk that is going on in your mind. Make an effort to breathe slowly and deeply. Immediately get rid of the negative thoughts by letting yourself focus on the most peaceful, comfortable setting you can imagine, and while you are picturing the setting replace the negative thoughts that you are accustomed to with positive self-talk. For instance, with each breath you could repeat a reaffirming phrase such as, “I can handle anything when I’m in control of myself” or “I’m an able, desirable human being”.

Soon you will find yourself in a better state of mind

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