Do You Find It Hard To Relax?

Do you find it hard to relax? Do you feel stressed a lot?

There are several methods of achieving relaxation, including massage, exercise, meditation and guided imagery. It can be as simple as sitting quietly and listening to some favourite music.  Ideally, try to aim for 30 minutes each day of uninterrupted relaxation time.  This may mean rising slightly earlier, going for a walk of an evening, or using children’s nap times to relax, instead of doing more chores.  Organising assistance and support from family and friends to help you keep this balance in your life is important.

  1. BREATHE DEEPLY

  2. TAKE SOME TIME FOR YOURSELF

    • GET A MASSAGE
    • READ A BOOK
    • WATCH TV
    • DO EXERCISE OR SPORT
    • TAKE TIME FOR A HOBBY
    • GET OUT IN YOUR GARDEN
    • MEDITATE
    • TALK TO A FRIEND
    • LISTEN TO MUSIC

  3. AROMATHERAPY- THE FOLLOWING OILS ARE THOUGHT TO HELP RELIEVE STRESS:

    Bergamot
    Chamomile
    Eucalyptus
    Cedarwood
    Geranium
    Jasmine
    Lavender
    Neroli
    Rose
    Peppermint
    Sandalwood
    Ylang ylang

  4. TALK TO SOMEONE- SEE A COUNSELLOR

  5. PRACTICE YOGA

  6. PLAY WITH YOUR CHILDREN

  7. PLAY WITH YOUR PET OR WALK YOUR DOG

No matter what techniques you choose to use for stress management, the following general rules should always be kept in mind:

  • Do something you enjoy. Whether it is a hobby, sport or even a job; you need to be involved in satisfying pastimes on a regular basis.
  • Allocate time for yourself and don’t feel guilty about it.
  • Recognise that relaxation time is as important as other aspects of your life.
  • Don't over commit your time to other people.
  • Be committed to any stress reducing activity you take on.
  • Don't overload your mind, make a list so you can clearly see all you need to do
  • Bring problems out in the open don't bottle them up.
  • Don't procrastinate (waste time).  Putting off something you dread only makes it worse and magnifies the problem.
  • Learn to say "No".  Realize that much anger and irritation can be avoided by not letting yourself be imposed upon by other people.

If you would like to learn more about reducing your stress levels, why not have a look at our Human Health & Wellbeing courses.