Essential Relaxation
For many people, the idea of taking time out for yourself is a foreign concept. When you are juggling so many things at once, the idea of stepping back and letting go for a while can be hard to do. Time is such a precious commodity that using some of it to make sure you are balanced both mentally and physically can seem like a waste of time on some levels. The idea of indulging in daily relaxation techniques is so difficult when in the back of your mind the only things you are thinking of are chores, being there for family, and meeting your deadlines. Slicing out a small amount of time for yourself to practice relaxation should not be seen as mere self-indulgence. Here are a few reasons why you should start looking at relaxation as something much more important than a luxury.
Maintenance
Visiting your doctor is part of a normal, healthy maintenance routine. When you are sick, you visit the doctor. When you need advice on a health-related issue, you visit your doctor. If you have a broken arm, a trip to the doctor is a natural next step. Putting the same level of normalcy on relaxation techniques as going to the doctor can retrain your mind to view these techniques as a healthy routine instead of something you have to make time to do. Getting into a pattern of practicing your relaxation techniques can be as vital a part of your overall healthcare as an annual checkup. Changing how you view these techniques can change how you practice them—without guilt.
Daily Reflection
You take daily vitamins to make sure you are at your very best, so why not add relaxation techniques to your regimen as well? Practicing your relaxation techniques can help you take on the day with a lighter, more focused viewpoint. Your schedule can be hectic. Arming yourself with the best tools to get things done is one reason why taking time for relaxation isn’t simply self-indulgence. When you have the mental fortitude to take on the day ahead of you, then all those tasks on your list seem much easier to accomplish.
Self-Nurturing
This is one of the most important reasons why relaxation techniques should never be considered a luxury or a self-indulgence of any kind. Training yourself to understand the difference between self-indulging and self-nurturing can be what redefines how you view these techniques. Self-nurturing is what you do to take care of yourself. Watching your favorite show, reading a book, going for a run, enjoying a long bubble bath, or just sitting down for a little downtime are all part of a healthy self-nurturing plan. Relaxation techniques fit perfectly into the nurturing arena of your life. When you take time out for yourself, then you will be able to give more of yourself. Continually giving everything you have when you are running on fumes will never provide the best results. Instead, take some time for relaxation. When you are fully nurtured, then tackling whatever life throws your way can be done with a much more balanced and level head.
For a quick way to relax, try my 1-minute relaxation break. If you have more time, check out my relaxation training page. If you ever have questions about relaxation techniques and self-nurturing, feel free to email me at beth@atimeforexpression.com
Breathing in peacefulness....feeling calm and centered.