Stress.
It’s something we all deal with on a daily basis.
It’s true that a little bit of stress can be a good thing…
But did you realize that being under stress constantly can start to do some pretty terrible things to your body?
Headaches. Fatigue. Problems sleeping. Feeling overwhelmed or angry. Depression…
The good news is that there are ways to minimize the impact that stress has on us.
Even better, there are techniques that are super simple, require no special equipment, and won’t take up a lot of time.
Want to learn more?
Read on for three simple ways to give yourself a mini vacation from everyday stress.
1. Balanced Breathing (Sama Vritti)
This is a simple breathing practice that absolutely anyone can do. Practicing this breathing technique will help calm your nervous system and focus your mind.
How to do it:
Sit comfortably (or lie down for a more relaxing practice). Close your eyes, and bring your awareness to your breath — don’t change anything yet, and just observe the natural pattern of your inhalations and exhalations.
When you are ready to start, inhale to the count of 4, and then exhale to the count of 4. Each inhalation and exhalation should be the same length. Take a few rounds of this even breathing (or more) until you feel your body begin to relax and your mind begin to settle.
You can increase the length of the inhalations and exhalations as you become more comfortable with the practice. Note: if you ever feel dizzy or lightheaded, stop immediately and return your breath to normal.
2. Chin Mudra (Unrestricted Consciousness Gesture)
The most common hand gesture used in meditation, the Chin Mudra is also wonderful for inviting calmness.
How to do it:
Come into a comfortable seated position. Touch the tip of the thumb to the tip of the index finger, and keep the other fingers unbent and relaxed. Rest the back of your hands on your thighs.
Hold the mudra for at least a few minutes while you sit quietly. Observe the pattern of your breathing — you can pair this with Balanced Breathing to save time.
3. Child’s Pose (Balasana)
An incredibly revitalizing pose, Child’s Pose is perfect for when you simply need a break from the rest of the world. The posture supports you as you move your attention inward, and helps to connect with your body’s innate ability to restore itself.
How to do it:
Begin in table position, with your hips stacked above your knees. Draw the big toes together and sink your buttocks back toward your heels — you can keep your knees separated wide, or close together, whichever is most comfortable for you.
Your forehead will rest comfortably on the mat (or floor). Your arms can be outstretched (keep them relaxed), stacked under your forehead, or wrapped around your legs — again, whatever is most comfortable for you.
Hold the pose for at least a few minutes, while imagining bringing the breath into the sides and the back of the lungs. Follow the pattern of your breathing if your mind starts to wander.
Be Less Affected By Stress
Just imagine what your life could be like if you could kick stress to the curb.
More energy. Less pain. Better sleep. Increased motivation. A healthier, more focused you.
It’s as simple as starting to incorporate a few easy stress relieving techniques into your day.
So go ahead — pick one! (Or two, or all three!)
The next time you feel like you’re about to blow your top, stop… and give one of these a try.
Are you already using stress relieving techniques? If so, how’s it going? If not, which of the 3 in this post are you going to try? Let me know in the comments!
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