You always have the choice to relieve stress and to come back to balance. The thing is, be honest, are you a little addicted to some of the drama that plays out in your life or those around you, OR is your stress from trying to bend over backwards trying to please other people?
Whatever the reason (and there can ovbiously be many), choose some tools that you can consistently turn to. Unravel those feelings of stress and do what works for the UNIQUENESS OF YOU!
There are many ways to help you to come back to balance and here is a list of 10 for you to choose from. I’m keeping these really simple here. The real key is to create and maintain habits that help you to do some of these things (or others that you may choose) consistently.
1. BREATHE.
Place your hands on your heart and simply breathe for 2-5 minutes.
2. KUNDALINI YOGA BREATH TECHNIQUE.
With your thumb, block off your right nostril (and all other fingers pointing straight up) and breath in and out of your left nostril for 2 minutes or 26 breaths.
3. WALK.
Go for a 5 minute walk around the block, around the office, around the house. As a certain company once said, “Just Do It”.
4. STRETCH.
Do 1 or 2 stretches for 2-5 minutes.
5. GIVE OR RECEIVE A HUG.
Research studies have shown that a 20 second hug will allow you to release oxytocin within your body and this definitely helps you relax. Perhaps choose your hugging partner carefully if you’re up for doing it for that long 🙂
6. LISTEN TO YOUR FAVOURITE SONG.
Play a song that is deeply inspiring to you. Have the playlist ready to go for the times that you really need it.
7. ENGAGE IN A FINE MOTOR ACTIVITY.
Doing activities that involve the small motor movements of the hands has shown to release stress. Have something ready with you that you’re working on – drawing, knitting, colouring (yep mandala colouring for me 🙂 ), or simply doodling.
8. PLAY WITH A PET.
Or borrow one if you have to. There is study after study showing the benefits of playing with your beloved 4 legged friends. Take a break, connect with them, have fun with them.
9. MASSAGE YOURSELF.
Choose a stiff or tight area on your body and massage it yourself with circular movements. This can easily be done through your clothes or get the oil out and go all the way. If you have the benefits of a partner, friend or work buddy around, give each other a 5 minute massage.
10. LEGS UP THE WALL.
This is a wonderful yoga pose that helps to calm the nervous system. Obviously you need a piece of wall. Sit next to the wall side on (as close to the wall as you can). Now lie down on your back and place your legs up the wall. Place your arms to the side of you, palms facing up. You’ll find it a little more comfy with a yoga mat under you and perhaps a little cushion under your head. Many of my yoga teachers have also told me that this is a wonderful anti-aging pose 🙂 A lot of bang for your buck on this one!
Choose something that works and make the choice to “Just Do It”!
If you would like even more reminders, tips and tools to keep you on track and in balance with your life, put your details in below and let’s stay in touch.
Happy 5 Minute Stress Relieving
Lisa
