Whether you’re stressed about your bills, your job, or your family, it’s important to remember to – take a deep breath with me – RELAX. Now I’m not saying to need to go splurge on a spa day every weekend, but there are simple ways to naturally relax every day so you can feel your very best! Here are my top 5:

Meditation

Meditation is probably the simplest way to relax. Whether it’s deep breathing where you inhale slowly through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth or progressive muscle relaxation, meditation can be one of the most effective means of stress relief. Simply sitting for 5 minutes a day in a quiet environment free from distractions such as your cell phone, breathing slowly, and thinking or reciting a positive mantra (ie. I love myself, all is well, ect) can help you deal more positively with anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation is another great way to meditate the stress away. Start by laying on a comfortable surface, and become aware of all the different parts of your body, starting with your fingers and progress to the hand, arms, and chest, until you’ve gone through all the parts of your body out through the top of your head. Then become aware of the environment around you, picturing it. Be mindful not to fall asleep while doing this and slowly move your parts of your body after you’ve completed this and come back into your setting.

Using Essential Oils

Essential Oils are a very simple way to relax at the end of the day. Placing essential oils in a burner or rubbing them on your feet with a carrier oil (such as olive oil) has been shown to be an effective means of relaxation. Lavender, Orange, Sweet Marjoram, and Roman Chamomile are often used for relaxation. Try putting a few drops in a bowl of boiling water, putting a towel over your head, and slowly inhaling the steam. A bath with a couple drops of essential oil is also a great way of relaxing when you have the time.

Connecting with Nature

One of my favorite methods of inexpensive natural relaxation is going for a walk in the woods. Being outside in nature is such a good way to relax that it has even been proven to help recuperate from a stressful event! Walking in the park, gardening, or simply sitting out in nature puts you in the “now” and temporarily stops you from concentrating on what is causing you stress. If you live in the city or can’t get outside, watching videos or even just looking at photos of nature can help you relax.

Cuddling with Your Pet

It’s pretty well known that having a pet to cuddle with helps you relax. But did you know that petting your, well, pet releases endorphins and other stress relieving chemicals in your body? And did you know that the frequency of your cat’s purr can help heal bones and relieve stress in your body? It goes without saying, but having a pet to cuddle with is also a good cure for loneliness! If you can’t afford to take care of a pet, watching those cute cat videos on youtube also works for stress relief.

Exercise

Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to help relieve stress and is often recommended by therapists to do in conjunction with antidepressants to make them more effective. Aerobic exercise helps reduce the level of cortisol, a stress hormone in your body, and causes your body to release more of those “feel good” hormones like endorphins. As your waistline shrinks, your outlook on life typically gets better as your self confidence and self discipline are improved.

As you can see, living a stress free life doesn’t have to be expensive or detrimental to your health (ie. cigarettes and alcohol). Try a couple of these very quick, easy tasks next time you’re letting stress and anxiety get the best of you. I’m almost certain you’ll feel good, mind, body, and soul.

Sources:

Web MD

Daily Infographic

Harvard Health

About the author : This article was written by Amanda Rickett. Amanda currently resides in Newaygo, Michigan where she helps her parents cultivate garlic. She enjoys playing with her cat Lola Boy and binge watching Netflix shows when she needs a moment to relax. She also is a professional writer for 21Drops.com.
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