The Importance of Relaxation
For many life today is busy, we live in a hectic world full of stimulation and pressure. Sometimes relaxation can end up on the bottom of the “to do” list. What science is now revealing to us, is what the ancient yogis always knew that, relaxation is necessary for health and well-being.
Time relaxing is so beneficial. When scientists talk about relaxation and health they do not mean just sitting on a sofa drinking tea or hanging out with friends (however this too can be very beneficial), in this instance they mean at least ten minutes daily (or 3-4 times a week) of guided relaxation, meditation, breathing exercises, yoga or another mind body practice that induces a state of deep relaxation.
During relaxation the mind becomes calmer, clearer and stiller, as it is provided with that time and space to eliminate mental clutter (thoughts that are not necessary). Mental clutter takes up valuable space and fools us into thinking we are busy.
Relaxation sessions will help us to make sense of any thoughts that are constantly whizzing around the mind. Relaxation will clear the mind so that we become aware of what really needs to be done.
Sometimes the mind is busy being busy! Quite often the mind just likes to do something, so it plays through different thoughts, conversations or connections and that often adds to our feelings of being busy. By learning different relaxation techniques, we provide the mind with an activity, which not only give the mind something to do it also provides a whole multitude of positive benefits.
By following a guided relaxation, it is easier to stay on task and complete a relaxation session (it helps to stop the mind from wandering). Guided relaxations last for a set duration, choose a relaxation that fits into your day and follow it from start to finish. Doing so daily will help you integrate relaxation with your daily routine and form a new habit which is completely beneficial to all aspects of life, including work, relationships and other physical activities.
The benefits of relaxation will increase with regular practise.
Here are a few reasons why we should all take the time for regular relaxation: -
Relaxation reduces stress, improves sleep, clears and declutters the mind, enhances concentration, enriches relationships, helps regulate heart beat and blood pressure, helps decision making, releases concerns and unnecessary worries, balances mind and body, encourages a calmer disposition, strengthens the immune system, increases compassion and understanding, improves focus, enhances leisure activities and so the list continues.
Maybe today one of the biggest reasons for taking time to relax, is that relaxation reduces stress and slows down the production of stress hormones. Stress negatively influences health, work, relationships and so many areas of our lives – achieving and maintaining healthy stress levels is a positive step for everyone.
Taking time to integrate Relaxation with your daily activities will bring so many positive benefits.
This blog article was written by Sue Fuller creator of the Yoga 2 Hear range of audio yoga classes and yoga teacher training courses.
