Quick Tips to De-Stress
Sitting down for a few reflective minutes to enjoy a glass of sparkling water or a cup of herbal tea can provide a welcome moment of relaxation. It will also hydrate your skin, revitalize your energy and give you an attitude adjustment!
When you feel the fatigue of a long day, this "feet up" technique will help you to rejuvenate in just 10 minutes. Lie flat on the floor with your knees and feet resting on a chair or bed. (Your body makes two 90-degree angles.) If you feel tension in your neck, roll a small towel and place it at the base of your skull. If the tension is between your shoulder blades, roll the towel length-wise and align it with your spine, letting your shoulder blades fall to either side. With your eyes closed, breathe slowly and deeply for five to 10 minutes. You will feel remarkably refreshed in a very short time.
Simple stretching exercises relieve stress and tension effortlessly. Here are a few examples:
- With your back straight, clasp your hands behind your back and allow your chin to fall toward your chest. Hold to the count of 10.
- Shrug your shoulders toward your ears, hold to the count of five, and gradually release. Repeat several times.
- Stand facing a wall, arms outstretched. Lean forward and slowly perform "standing push-ups" until you are tired.
Deep breathing promotes the "relaxation response." Sit comfortably or stretch out on a bed. Close your eyes. Inhale to the count of five and exhale to the count of six. Imagine you are inhaling energy and exhaling tension. Even three minutes of deep breathing promotes relaxation and relieves your body of tension.
Connie Tyne, LMSW is executive director of Cooper Wellness Program in Dallas.
Cooper Wellness Program is a 4, 6, or 13-day behavior modification program that educates and motivates people to get a fresh start in controlling stress, improving fitness, controlling diet and achieving weight loss. For more information regarding Cooper Wellness Program, visit www.cooperaerobics.com.