 | Jude Messner, RN, MA, PhD, Reiki Master, is the owner-operator of The Relaxation Station and Boutique in Pittsburg, Kansas. Relaxation Therapy Facilitator, Spiritual Counselor and Motivational Speaker, Jude’s educational background a;so includes Masters Degrees in Divinity, Spiritual Counseling, and Business, and a Doctorate Degree in World Cultural Studies. She is a certified in Tuning Fork Therapy®, Soft Touch Auric Massage®. Jude is a member of the American Holistic Nurses Association and a member of the Healing Touch Professional Association. For more information please visit www.EZonthestress.com. |
Health & Wellness
2011-11-21 10:53:45
Reducing stress
Q: Can you give me some ideas on reducing stress?
A: Relaxing and reducing stress should be an important part of our daily living routine. The method that a person chooses to accomplish this should enable the person the opportunity to get away from the hassles and annoyances of the busy day.
Some of these relaxing moments may be spent channel surfing with the remote or dozing in front of the evening’s prime time programming. But are these really stress reducers? Or are these just symptoms of exhaustion?
Quite often, busy people do mistake stress for simple exhaustion. The symptoms are frequently alike and the same relaxing and recharging techniques will often work for both.
Stress may result in physical symptoms of fatigue, achiness or muscle strain or it may result in bouts of insomnia or even a feeling of not being able to concentrate for any period of time.
There are many ways that a person may relax and recharge. Choosing the method best suited for you should reflect your preference in what things you enjoy. For example, if you do not like to read, curling up with a good book will probably only add to your stress!
A few of the quieter ways to reduce stress and recharge include going for a walk and enjoying the presence of nature. If you are a city dweller, you may enjoy a brisk walk through town or find a nice park to spend some time in. Spending time in your garden is also an excellent stress reducer, that is, if your garden is for fun and not a chore!
Listening to soothing music is often a calming experience. Lighting incense or scented candles is another calming experience, as aromatherapy is an excellent way to relax. Of course if you find scents or smoke annoying, another technique is in order!
A nice warm cup of tea is an excellent way to recharge. Savor your tea, sipping quietly, while enjoying the aroma.
Other ways to relax and recharge include calling a friend for a long overdue chat (be sure your friend is free to chat and not stressed while chatting!); playing with a pet; watching a light hearted comedy; or choosing a reward for yourself at the completion of a particularly difficult task.
Meditation is an excellent mode of relaxation and stress reduction. There are many well prepared tapes and CDs made for relaxation and stress reduction.
Don’t forget to drink water! Hydration is an important part of health maintenance. Water is especially important after a nice walk or a meditation session.
Other stress reduction methods include Energy Therapies such as massage therapy, reflexology or meditation sessions. All of these modalities are helpful in the reduction of stress and in recharging your energies.
Identifying and handling stress is an important part of our everyday lives. Experiment with different techniques, have fun and most importantly Relax! You’ll be glad you did!
