7 ways to chill out and recharge
* Do Nothing
Here’s how: At least once during the day, take five or ten minutes to sit quietly and do nothing. Focus on the sounds around you, your emotions and any tension in your neck, shoulders, arms, chest, etc.
* Laugh Out Loud
Here’s how: Keep something handy that makes you laugh. It could be a collection of your favourite comic strips or a funny voice mail from, say, your child or a friend. You could even take a few moments to think about watching your favourite television comedy. Turn to this very so often during your day.
* Tune In
Here’s how: When you face a daunting task, play soothing music – be it classical, country or jazz. At work, you can use the CD drive on your computer to keep the music at the ready.
* Think Happy
Here’s how: Focus on someone or something you care deeply about for anywhere from 15 seconds to 5 minutes. Or picture a scene from a peaceful vacation. A phrase that makes you feel positive about yourself and the world can also work.
* Hit The Road
Here’s how: Get up from your desk, the couch – wherever you may be – and take a ten-minute walk.
* Breathe Easy
Here’s how: For five minutes, slow your breathing down to about six deep-belly breaths a minute. In other words, inhale for about five seconds, exhale for about five.
* Rise Relaxed
Here’s how: Right before bed, and after the alarm goes off in the morning, take five minutes to relax your entire body. Start by tensing your toes; then consciously relax them. Move on to the muscles in your feet, and then your calves, upper legs, buttocks, moving upward until you end by scrunching up and then relaxing the muscles in your face.
sources: Reader’s Digest
