Continuing from Part 1 of this series on Relaxing. In this series, I am sharing techniques that I use for myself to deal with stressful or difficult periods. Once again, I’d like to emphasize that I am not offering medical advice to anyone. I am only sharing things that I do for myself, which may not be appropriate for your situation. Please seek out a professional practitioner whenever necessary.
Here’s the full list again with links to Part 1 as appropriate:
>Yoga
>Walking in Nature
>Writing
>Exercise
>Music
Writing
Writing is a wonderful outlet for me. Journaling and poetry are two types of writing that I utilize. Journaling about what’s going on in my life allows me to relax, think, and process. As I am writing, sometimes new ideas or questions come to me. One technique that I have combined with my journaling is expressing gratitude. I was inspired to do this after reading an online article with Susanna the Happyologist to find 3 specific things each day that I am grateful for. I have heard that as you express gratitude for what you have, it shifts your focus, and often attracts more things to be grateful for into your life. Poetry is also something I enjoy, and I write about a little of everything. My poems very seldom rhyme. Dumping thoughts on a page and playing with words is very therapeutic. Many of my poems will never be read by anyone else. People often tell me they could never write poetry. I actually believe that a poet lives within each of us.
Exercise
I am sure everyone has heard all about the physical benefits of exercise. I enjoy the intangible benefits for relieving stress and frustration as well. Participating in dance classes such as Zumba, and Werq, is one of my favorite ways to exercise. However everyone is different and must find what moves them. Recently I read that they have studies showing that dancing can be used to ward off dementia. Really? That’s an added incentive! Kickboxing is another favorite for me. It’s an excellent outlet, as well as a full body workout that increases my self-confidence, and subsequently helps me to relax. Probably those endorphins! Anything that combines choreography and kickboxing (i.e. Turbo Kick, Bang!, etc.) is awesome in my book. Find your favorite form of exercise and remember to keep it moving!
Music
I often forget (or rather take for granted) using music as a way to relax. They say music soothes the soul. This is another area that is very individual in terms of what type or genre of music works best. There is no one size fits all, and I would venture to guess that even for the same person, the type of music used may be different depending on the situation. Being moved by a piece of music, whether you are listening to it, playing it on an instrument, or singing it can be calming, therapeutic, and – dare I say – healing. Music is readily available through a multitude of devices these day. Explore and find what works best for you.
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