In modern society it is becoming far more impossible to avoid stressful situations. Too much stress can be unhealthy which is why learning to relax is so important. We all cope with stress when we go to sleep at night. While we are sleeping, our bodies become very relaxed and our heart rate, blood pressure, pulse and body temperature decrease. This allows our bodies and minds a chance to recharge allowing us to face the next day with renewed energy.



In theory, relaxation does the opposite of what stress does. It gives the body a break and helps cancel out many problems that stress may cause. Relaxation can also reduce muscle tension. Learning to relax is like learning a new skill. It takes practise to become good at it. Here are a few ideas to help you achieve it.

Breathing.

Most of us take breathing for granted, in stressful situations our breathing can go off sync and we don't even notice. This can lead to muscle tension, headaches and anxiety. Performing deep breathing exercises on a daily basis can help relieve stressful feelings.

Relax your Muscles.

Our muscles tense when we are stressed. Learn to recognise muscle tension and then learn to relieve it.

Use Imagery.

We were all great at this when we were children, imagining things all the time. Learn to use your imagination again to relieve stress. For example, imagine you're sitting on the beach and can hear the waves crashing while feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin.

Exercise.

Exercise can have a calming effect that makes you feel, think and perform better. Yoga is an excellent relaxer. But even just going for a brisk walk can make you feel so much better.

Ways to reduce your stress.

Firstly, take stock of your life and what may cause you stress. Look to find a way you can eliminate or reduce some of the stress in your life. By reducing the problems you can reduce the symptoms of stress.

Take a look at your diet, certain things we eat can all contribute to stress. Caffeine, alcohol and sugar can cause stress, whereas fruit and vegetables can help reduce it.

Quit smoking. Nicotine increases nervous irritability. While quitting maybe a stressful process, in the long run you'll feel better once you've quit.

Make time for recreation and enjoy yourself. Take up some new hobbies and make sure you allow enough time for these each week.

Keep a positive attitude. Try and focus on the positive side of each situation. Looking on the bright side lightens your load. You might not like certain things in your life, but instead of letting them frustrate you, try to accept them and find a way of working around them.

Have a massage once in a while. A massage will allow your body and mind to be intouch again. In stressful situatiuations our mind and body loose touch with one another. This contact needs to be re-established again. If you cant leave the house for whatever reason or don't have a partner to give you a massage at home try relaxing by yourself in the bedroom. Climaxing is extremly relaxing. If you are alone or single, sex toys can help you along with this.

Learn to laugh. Laughing can lower your stress levels and exercises your heart and cardiovascular system. By brightening your mood you can improve your well-being.

Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Read a book or even see a counsellor to find out ways of making your life more manageable.

Stress can be a result of allowing daily irritations and frustrations to take control of your life. It doesn't have to be like that. You can anticipate difficulties, plan your time carefully, and be aware of how you react to problems. By attending to a particular problem you can create ways that put you in the driver's seat where you belong.