LEARN TO RELAX
Techniques to Help You Feel Calm Again
It’s easy to get caught up in life’s daily problems. Many conversations seem to center around what’s wrong at work, at home, and in the world. With all the concentration on the negative, it's no wonder people have a hard time relaxing. Here are some tips to help you release this tension.
Reinforce the Good
Be positive and focus on the good things you see in yourself and others. Thinking and saying self-defeating things instead of reinforcing good, strong qualities will drain you, add to your stress, and eventually defeat you.
To relax, keep in mind that physiological changes can occur as a result of facial expressions. Stop and think about your facial expression the next time you realize you are under a lot of stress. Unfurl your brow, relax your lips, open your eyes wide, and try to smile. You may find you feel better.
Use Pent-Up Energy Positively
If you’re feeling tense, use that built-up energy to go for a long brisk walk or run. Exercise will help you positively redirect the built-up energy. Concentrate on deep breathing and really use and stretch your arms and legs.
Get the pent-up feelings out. Try screaming, and pounding a pillow or beating a rug. Do some stretching exercises. Even if you can’t get away at the moment to go outside or to the gym, you can still take five minutes and stretch just about anywhere. Uncomfortable clothing can make you feel claustrophobic, so try loosening your tie or kicking off your tight shoes.
Mental Relaxation
Visualize your favorite, quiet spot on the beach, by a river, or in the woods. Let yourself hear the waves crashing on the shore and the wind rustling through the trees. Feel the sun on your face and smell the fresh, clean air.
If you are at home and are having trouble winding down from the day, take a hot bath. Or try relaxation tapes. Tapes are available in video or audiocassette formats. Use one in order to move out of a tense mood into one that is more relaxed.
If you’re finding it continually difficult to relax, remember, help is just a phone call away at the EAP.
Call the
Employee Assistance Program at 1-800-888-5105.
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