This Tip was originally included in The Simplifier #30.

Relaxation ideas

There are so many ways to relax during the day. Some take time and a larger commitment, some are simple and can be done at your desk in a couple of minutes.  When you feel yourself having short and shallow breath or your shoulders tense up, make a point of relaxing. Being calm will help your reactions to situations, and give you a better ability to take care of business. Here are some ways to relax, in case you’re having trouble thinking of any:

• laugh (whether you feel like it or not)
• smile (ditto!)
• full body muscle tense & release (clench every muscle simultaneously and then release 2 or 3 times)
• breathe deeply (draw your breath down into your belly at least 5 times)
• take a short nap
• go for a walk with an “empty” mind
• listen to relaxing music or a guided imagery CD for relaxation
• meditation, yoga, or tai chi (take a class to learn one or more of these)
• indulge your favorite hobby!