Staying Healthy

Stress

Doing a relaxation exercise is never a waste of time!

TRelaxation techniques have been shown to bring about profound and positive changes in the body’s overall functioning. These techniques can also improve thinking and memory. Finally, relaxation techniques have been used extensively to improve quality rest and sleep. Here are some of the requirements for effective relaxation

1.	Put aside 10-15 minutes a day to do a relaxation exercise
2.	Find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed
3.	Experiment with different forms of relaxation and find the one that works best for you
4.	Quiet your mind as you begin to practice an exercise. You may, for example, say to yourself, “I am not going to think about things or plan things in my mind for the next few minutes. Instead I am going to allow my mind and body to replenish and recharge.”
5.	Daily practice is the key to success. You need to be steadfast and keep using the relaxation techniques until they become second nature.

Let's try a simple relaxation technique:

•	Take a deep breath and as you slowly breathe out allow your shoulders to relax.
•	Take a deep breath and as you slowly breathe out allow your body to sink into the chair or the bed
•	Take a deep breath and shrug your shoulder. Pause for a brief moment and as you breathe out allow your shoulders to relax and return to their normal position.
•	Now, simply pay attention to your breathing and each time you exhale silently say in your mind, “I am peaceful and relaxed”.

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Cedar Crest College | 100 College Drive, Allentown, PA 18104-6196 | 800-360-1222