This week's Life Well Lived, Getting Happy question asks, "what are your favorite relaxation techniques? And what benefits do you see from practicing them?" My first thought about this was to laugh. Relax? That has always been a challenge for me. My brain is constantly on. I had an incredible professor in Grad school who was an expert at meditaion and taught me his technique. I used to be able to tune out and just breath. Yoga was even really helpful.
Lately, I can't seem to make those techniques work for me, but there are some other ways I work on relaxation:
- Going to the local spa for a facial. I've only gone twice, as it is expensive, but I had no idea how good it would feel to have someone focus on my face. A face, head and arm massage is very relaxing and rejuvenating.
- Going to the Y to exercise. I still don't love exercising, but it is time that is focused on just me, no one talking to me, no one asking for a snack or a drink or why. It lets me tune out and just focus on the moment. I even tried a yoga class again after many years of a hiatus. That was hard, not all that relaxing, but there is potential there!
- Knitting with my knitting group. I don't always get to go, but when I do it is such a nice way to turn off life and be with like minded crafters.
Someday, I'd love to incorporate meditation back into my life. I did download an app that has timed guided meditations, but I've only used it once. I do have a relaxation playlist on my iPod that I listen to at night when I can't sleep. It usually helps.
How do you relax? What works for you?
Check out BlogHer.com's Dr. Amyee for techniques on how to relax and mediate. Be sure to enter the Life Well Lived Moments Sweepstakes for a chance to win an iPod touch!
