Relaxing Takes Practice

We’ve all said it: “That guy needs to learn how to relax!” Well, in fact, relaxing is something people really do have to learn how to do. Relaxing takes practice. But the rewards can help you manage and reduce stress, and improve your overall health. There is no one right way to relax. And there’s an almost never-ending list of ways to do it: exercise, reading, listening to music, meditation, visualization, painting, yoga, Tai Chi, deep breathing—and there are many more. Whatever form of relaxation you choose, it is important do it in a quiet, peaceful place where you won’t be disturbed.

One simple way anyone can practice relaxing is with deep-breathing exercises. You can do it just about anywhere and it can also help reduce tension before a stressful event. In her book MS and Your Feelings, author Allison Shadday recommends one of her favorite breathing exercises called teapot breathing. Here’s how it works:

• Sit or lie comfortably and close your eyes

• Begin by taking a deep, full breath

• Imagine drawing up cleansing water through the soles of your feet to the top of your head. See your body filling up with the cleansing water as you fill your lungs with air

• When your lungs are full of air, release the breath at your own pace and make a teapot (hissing) sound as the breath leaves your body

• Imagine your body releasing any negative emotions with the exhale

• Repeat these steps three times