The secret to being more productive and happy

Relax.

 

One of my favorite words for the last two weeks has been “hectic”. Okay, I also like “leverage” and “relax”. When life seems like a bit of a tsunami sometimes, and you feel like you’re lagging behind, you know you are stressed – and that you have to relax. 

There can be multiple daily stressors at work – maybe you were leaving for a meeting, dressed in a white shirt – and spilt coffee on it. Maybe you are trying to focus on some emergency work but can’t seem to hear yourself think over the noise of the kids yelling at each other. Maybe you’ve got to get somewhere real quick, and are stuck in a traffic jam.

If you go through these things they can be enough to make you feel you are ready to be certified. Here are some simple relaxation tips that can help.  You already know that taking a few deep breaths is an instant remedy – which is why breathing exercises form the basis of most relaxation exercises. The best thing is that you can do them anywhere, at any time. And – make a world of difference to the way you feel. 

The reason why relaxation exercises work is that when our stress levels shoot up, our muscles tend to tighten, making our breathing rhythm change. As we breathe lightly, it becomes a kind of a vicious circle making our body respond with a fight or flight response – and naturally, this adds to your stress and tension.

This is why taking a few deep breaths always helps when you feel stressed. 

Do this now: take a deep breath. Slowly. Exhale. Repeat once more. Feel better? 

Now, here are some tips that can enhance the relaxing effect of your deep breathing: 

Am talking about visualization. Take off to your “happy place”. Plan ahead and visualize a place that makes you happy and feel relaxed, so that you can access this image whenever you need it.  For me, it is a cabin in the mountains during spring, birds chirping, little streams tinkling along…you know. Spend some time on this and make it personal. When you are stressed out, think about this place as you take a few deep breaths.

Yes. It works. Even if you don’t want to pray chanting your favorite mantra works. It makes you feel like you are a part of something, giving you a sense of belonging.

Physical activity is a great way to manage stress. Some quick ways to use this is take a walk around the block, do some yoga stretches, dancing to your favorite tune – all these work. Pick something that appeals to you. 

Where’s that stress? Your shoulders – head – neck – hands – tummy? Relax. It is not so hard. with a mini massage. If you have access to a massage therapist, that’s great because you can learn how to tackle those trouble spots on your own. 

A warm shower or a bath help you relax. Not in the mood? Then just use warming gloves, warm socks, or heat packs on your tight muscles to relax them.

Certain fragrances can be wonderfully relaxing and calm you down. Find your favorite smells and keep a sample that you can access to get a sniff of relaxation before or after your breathing exercises to enjoy the effect.

Oh, yes, Life’s a rush. But everyone needs to cool down and relax. Relaxation exercises make you more productive, happier. 

These worked for me. Now you tell me what you think – and please share your own tips in the comments section.