“Applied relaxation” is a powerful way to relieve stress, eases panic, and curbs anxieties. Applied relaxation refers to progressive muscle relaxation that involves the contraction of muscles in sequence, eventually relaxing all the main muscle groups in the body. Such relaxation method helps to serve the purpose of achieving a state of physical and mental calmness, which in turn helps to fight stress.
Applied relaxation starts with the head and facial muscles, by tensing these muscles for several seconds before relaxing them. The same procedure is repeated and gradually moved down to your neck and shoulder, then the shoulder blades, upper back, arms, hands, lower back, legs, and lastly your feet. You can feel the difference upon finishing an entire sequence of the exercise – you will feel relaxed, easy, and your stress subdues.
Another method to put stress at bay is by deep breathing. Deep breathing is an easy way to relax and calm down after experiencing stress. To start, breathe in deeply, filling your lungs and abdomen with air. The air that you inhale carries oxygen into your blood, greatly improving blood circulation and heart-rate while strengthening your lungs and abdominal muscles, relieving stress and making you become more alert and awake.
To gain the maximum benefits from deep breathing, just follow the steps below:
• Go to a place that is quiet and comfortable and where you will not be interrupted.
• Think positive and pleasant thoughts.
• Close your mouth and shut your eyes. Concentrate.
• Relax all the muscles in your body.
• Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose while counting to 8. At the same time, push out your abdomen.
• Hold your breath and count to 4.
• Release your breath through your mouth, counting to 8 as you do so.
• Repeat the process until you feel relaxed and free from stress.
Applied relaxation and deep breathing are just two ways to deal with stress. These exercises are worth doing because not only you can relieve your stress, but you can also improve your body well-being and your physical state.
Source by Lester Sim