Life is very different than we have ever experienced, the whole world is changed and our individual world has changed often causing stress and anxiety. Not having the interaction, we are used to. While many of us have time that we that is not usually available to us, it is a good time to start a relaxation practice. Everyone needs to relax every day, time to be still and quite and breath, it may seem impossible, though once you have started a practice it will be become a positive part of your life.

Try some these techniques, find a way to relax that suits your life.

• Relaxing can quiet your mind and make you feel peaceful and calm. Your body also reacts when you relax. For example, your muscles may be less tense and more flexible.
• There are different ways to relax. You may find one or more ways help to calm you down and feel at peace.

• Take a deep breath. Hold it for a moment, and then exhale. Feel more relaxed? Breathing exercises are one way to relax your mind and body. Being relaxed can help ease stress. It can also relieve anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.

• You can soak in a warm bath, with Epson salts or essential oils
• Listen to soothing music.
• Practice mindful meditation. The goal of mindful meditation is to focus your attention on things that are happening right now in the present moment. For example, listen to your body. Is your breathing fast, slow, deep, or shallow? Do you hear noises, such as traffic, or do you hear only silence? The idea is just to note what is happening without trying to change it. 

• Write. Some people feel more relaxed after they write about their feelings. One way is to keep a journal.
• Use guided imagery. With guided imagery, you imagine yourself in a certain setting that helps you feel calm and relaxed. You can use audiotapes, scripts, or a teacher to guide you through the process. 
• Slow yoga can calm the body and mind. 
• Try progressive muscle relaxation. This process involves tensing and relaxing each muscle group. Progressive muscle relaxation can reduce anxiety and muscle tension. If you have trouble falling asleep, this method may also help with your sleep problems. When you relax your muscles, your body gets the signal that it is okay to fall asleep. 
• Body scan relaxation imagine each part of your body is very calming. 

• Take a walk. Making time to walk and take in can also help you relax, being aware of what is around you while walking, not listening to music or on the phone. Use all your senses while you walk see, smell, touch, hear and feel. See the blossoms, smell the grass, hear the birds, touch – hug a tree and feel the ground underneath you as you walk. Be present as you walk.

I hope these ideas can be a help, do investigate further as there are many apps and U Tube snippets you may find what is right for you – take care of yourself. This is such a loveley worthwhile self care concept to do – try it if you find it difficult just keep giving it a go!

For more help and information contact Hannah on: https://www.southwellacupuncture.co.uk/contact/