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When it comes to our health, self-care tips tend to focus on exercise, healthy eating and regular doctor appointments.
What about relaxation? Healthy relaxation practices restore and rejuvenate our body and mind and are vital to overall well-being and health. Unfortunately, many of us do not know how to really relax—or worse, what we consider “relaxation” is drinking and eating too much, or spending too much “screen time” which is counterproductive.
To truly get the restorative benefits of rest and relaxation there are healthy ways to do it. Not everybody relaxes the same way. Meditation may be the key to mental health for one person, and agonizingly boring for another. A massage may be a heavenly escape for one, and uncomfortable for another. So, it’s important to find out what relaxes you, and be generous in dedicating time for yourself to do it. Some healthy ideas to try:
- Get out in nature. A leisurely stroll through a wooded trail or park may be just the tonic to release stress.
- Deep breathing. This is an easy one that you can do anytime, anywhere. If extremely stressed, try “square” breathing, which is four seconds of inhaling, holding the breath for four seconds, exhaling for four seconds and holding the breath for four seconds.
- Yoga or tai chi. A lot of people swear by these gentle exercises as change agents to their outlook and health.
- Music and art therapy. Sit back, close your eyes and listen to relaxing music you enjoy; or create art with the medium of your choice.
Whatever technique you choose, using them in tandem with coping mechanisms such as positive thinking and finding humor in situations, will maximize the benefits of your relaxation time. At Flatrock, our employees' and residents’ health are a priority and we encourage healthy ways to mitigate stress and promote serenity.
