Chances are if you’re reading this, you’ve been in dire need to relax and calm a nerve or two. Here is a quick list of relaxation techniques that you can employ to help you find your footing and get back to center within no time:
- Listen to classical music. The greats are available all over the world wide web. Sometimes it’s as easy as going straight to Youtube.com and selecting a playlist (or two) of the best of Bach or Beethoven to help shift perspectives. Having a rough day? Continue with your tasks using the right background music. Classical music is known to help relax and focus your attention- taking you back to “psychic negentropy, optimal experience, or flow” as Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi would put it.
- Meditate. Don’t know how? There are many guided meditation exercises you can find online. Try a 30 minute exercise and see how this suits you. There are all kinds of meditation exercises you can try to help you come back to front and center.
- Read a book (on a topic that isn’t too heavy). If you’re a working student (or just working too hard), drop the school books (or papers) for awhile and immerse yourself in some random story. Wander into the different worlds of philosophical musings, adventure, sci-fi, or romance.
- Learn to appreciate art (and nature). Several areas around the Philippines display art. Visit the National Museum, city parks or sprawling university campuses. Art installations put a creative spin to winding down. Otherwise, sit quietly at your local park and relish in the simplicity of nature.
- Pay attention to your breathing. It comes almost automatically to us, and little do we realize that when we are stressed, our breathing comes in short spurts, as if hyperventillating. Bring enough oxygen to the brain is a good way to de-stress, so take a deep breath now and exhale slowly.
- Remain present. Empty your mind for a few seconds and pay attention to the mundane things that surround you. Come back to front and center.
- Put your feet up (literally). After a long day, it’s good to elevate your feet and allow the blood to circulate. Sometimes putting your feet up against the wall can also help you calm down and rest better.
