The Relaxation Technique
The Relaxation Technique Details
Breathing correctly acts as a natural tranquilizer for the nervous system, and so it goes that the deeper you breathe, the calmer your mind and body become. Acquiring the ability to relax is something very few people truly achieve without making serious effort, but, the benefits of practicing relaxation techniques can stand you in good stead for coping with all of life's day to day issues.
Standing in a supermarket line, or waiting at a stop light, will not seem quite so irritating once you have learned these simple relaxation exercises. That's not to say that you won't have the odd lapse into impatience now and again, but, you will find that you have fewer and fewer times when you even come close to blowing your cool.
The Method
Set the mood first by creating a home oasis. This is something you will be able to do with some creativity and even some ingenuity added if needed. You'll need to get the lights down low, and get the room as quiet as you can possibly do, even if it means using headphones or ear plugs. I highly recommend being barefooted.
Now on to The Relaxation Technique -
- Lie down comfortably on your mat, legs outstretched, arms gently resting at your sides. Palms should be facing up.
- Close your eyes and take three slow, deep breaths. In your mind's eye, imagine breathing in positive thoughts and exhaling out any negative ones.
- As you inhale, tighten the muscles in your body, head to toe; feel them become tense and rigid.
- As you exhale, loosen your hold on your muscles, letting them relax and become soft; taking any tension out of your body.
- Bring your shoulders up to your ears as far as you can, keeping your head and your whole body flat on your mat. Hold this position, counting to five, and then slowly drop your shoulders back down to the mat.
- Now for your arms. Tense the muscles in them, allowing them to flow in nearer to your body; hold them as close to you as you can. Count to five. Relax and release your arms, letting them fall away from your body. Focus on all tension ebbing away from you.
Repeat this same technique, continuing on with your abdomen, buttocks, legs, and finishing with your feet.