Relax your body and mind!

There are lots of ways to relax. Some ways are designed to relax your mind, and some to relax your body. Many relaxation methods work on both the mind and the body because they are connected.

You may want to try one or more of the following relaxation tips to see what works best for you.

Relaxing the mind

• Take slow, deep breaths.
• Soak in a warm bath.
• Listen to soothing music.
• Practice mindful meditation. The goal of mindful meditation is to focus your attention on things that are happening right now in the present moment. For example, listen to your body. Is your breathing fast, slow, deep, or shallow? Do you hear noises, such as traffic, or do you hear only silence? The idea is to note what is happening without trying to change it. 
• Write. Some people feel more relaxed after they write about their feelings. One way is to keep a journal.

Relaxing the body

• Do yoga. You can get books and videos to do at home or take a yoga class. 
• Try progressive muscle relaxation. This process involves tensing and relaxing each muscle group. Progressive muscle relaxation can reduce anxiety and muscle tension. If you have trouble falling asleep, this method may also help with your sleep problems. When you relax your muscles, your body gets the signal that it is okay to fall asleep. 
• Take a walk or do some other activity. Making time to do things you enjoy can also help you relax.
• Get a professional massage

Health body and mind relaxation

Have a warm drink that doesn’t have alcohol or caffeine in it, such as herbal tea like chamomile with relaxing properties.