Whether you are a yoga instructor or an air traffic controller, there will always be something in your life that causes stress. Bills, work, family, even the incessant ticking of the clock, can all put you over the edge. The goal of relaxation is to find peace within yourself. And just like any skill or habit, practice makes perfect. Here are three techniques from the Mayo Clinic to add to your relaxation tool kit.
- Autogenic Relaxation:
The “auto” root word means self while “gen” means to produce. You relax yourself by thinking of calming imagery and using body awareness to reach a relaxing state. Think of calm imagery like the ocean, recite meaningful words phrases, or breathe in order to reach that relaxing state. - Progressive Muscle Relaxation:
Tense each muscle for few seconds and then relax it for 30 seconds. Begin to slowly work your muscles from your neck to your toes. Repeat this exercise until you’ve reached the meditation state. - Visual Relaxation:
Try visualizing yourself in a location that is relaxing to you. Use all of your senses to help imagine yourself on a sunny, tranquil island; hear the water, smell the air, and feel the sand on your toes.