How to relax yourself

By Catalogs Editorial Staff

Learn how to relax yourself and decrease stress and anxiety in your life

Whether you had a rough day at work, you suffered a humiliating break-up, or you just found out your in-laws are coming for a long visit, there are times when you have to rely on yourself to calm down and relax before you do something that will result in the need for a good bail bondsman. Here are some tips for toughing out life?s rough patches.

Get Comfortable

When life gets uncomfortable, the first thing you should do is kick off your shoes, shed your work attire, and reach for something cozy to wear. Whatever you do, though, do not reach for your ex-boyfriend?s well-worn jersey and flannel pajama bottoms. Seriously bad days demand seriously comfortable lounge wear. Choose something warm, and unbelievably soft, and soothing.

While you are at it, don?t forget to pamper your feet. Indulge in a pair of warm slippers and surround yourself with a layer of warmth and comfort that will take your mind off the long walk to the parking garage, the number of times you bolted from your desk you?re your boss bellowed from down the hall, and long line at the grocery store.

Comfort Food

Once you have wrapped yourself in a cocoon of comfort, start assembling your stash of comfort food. You should plan on stock piling enough ice cream, chocolate, and potato chips to fortify a small army. Just as hurt muscles often require the alternating of cold and heat to sooth away the pain, you should plan on alternating sweet and salty comfort foods for maximum stress relief.

Distraction

One time honored method of relaxation is through distraction. Consider a marathon of movies that contain heroes with lives that make yours seem idyllic in comparison. There is nothing like a good tear-jerker to put your life back into perspective! For maximum relaxation, pair your chick flicks with a large bowl of popcorn and a soda.

Or, if you prefer, grab a pile of books and start reading. There is nothing like a good book to help ease the tension of your day and offer an alternate reality far away from the stressors that inhabit your life.

Indulge Your Senses

Your senses are a powerful tool for evoking a sense of peace and well-being. Consider all of your sense as you experiment with ways to help yourself relax. Proponents of aroma therapy have long touted the benefits of Lavender and Chamomile as calming and comforting scents. Essential oils can have a soothing effect and create a sense of serenity.

Put the Kettle On

There is a reason that Great Aunt Mildred always puts the kettle on when someone suffers from stress, emotional trauma, or a bad perm. Tea has always blended the ability to soothe and fortify those who partake of its brew. The British are well aware of the restorative effects of a cuppa; perhaps this is why they are known for having a ?stiff upper lip? in times of trial.

Healing Touch

If the tension in your life seems to settle in your neck, and if your shoulders are so tense that they seem to reside somewhere near your ears, it may be time to indulge in a good massage to work away the stress of the day. Or, in the alternative, consider gentle stretching to help work out the kinks and keep your muscles loose and relaxed.

Life is a complicated, rapid-fire ride through trials and tribulations. Instead of curling up in the fetal position and waiting for the ride to come to an end, try some of these tips to help you relax yourself so that you can get back to the messy-but-marvelous life that you created.