Don't Panic! - Relaxation Techniques.
Here are some simple and quick relaxation exercises that can be used to counteract anxiety or anger. Choose one of the techniques to practice and use it every day until it becomes second nature. You'll be surprised at how effective they can be.Before you start any of the exercises, follow these steps:
1. Get as comfortable as possible, preferably seated with a straight spine.
2. Remain passive. Just watch your mind work. Let your thoughts come and go without judging them. Don't work at it, just let it happen.
3. Take note of all sounds in the environment and let them pass too.
4. Focus inward on breathing as a natural, easy process.
VISUAL IMAGERY:
Open your imagination and focus on your breathing.
As your breathing becomes calm and regular, imagine that the air comes to you as a cloud - it fills you and goes out. You may imagine the cloud to be a particular color.
EYE FIXATION:
With your head level and your body relaxed, pick a spot to focus on (eyes are open at this point).
When ready, count five breaths, in and out, backward from five down to one. With each breath allow your eyes to close a little bit more.
When you get to number one, your eyes will be closed. Focus on the feelings of relaxation.
SHOULDER SHRUG:
Try to raise your shoulders up to your eyes.
Hold for the count of four.
Now drop your shoulders back to a normal position.
Repeat three times.
MEDITATION:
Alone in a quiet place, get as comfortable as you can. Then focus on a repeated word or phrase such as "calm" or "let it go," silently reciting it with each exhale. Let other thoughts, feelings and images drift away. Practice for 10 to 20 minutes twice a day.
by Caz West, Registered Homeopath & Nutritionist at Natural Remedies.