The positive health effects of relaxation are seemingly endless, spanning from reducing blood pressure to improving concentration and reducing feelings of anger and frustration. We all need to take a break from the stresses of everyday life, and luckily you don’t need to be a yoga aficionado to unwind.
Eat (and sniff) citrus fruits. A study published in Psychology Today called vitamin C a “stress buster” because of its ability to prevent a spike in anxiety-inducing cortisol. Snacking on citrus fruit or taking a vitamin C supplement can lessen you physical and psychological reactions to stress and help you unwind. Even just the smell of these acidic fruits may be enough to reduce anxiety (as well as help with digestion)!
Take a stroll outside. When we exercise outside, our levels of the stress hormone cortisol are reduced more significantly than when we work out indoors at the gym or on the treadmill. Plus you may get a boost of energy – some research suggests that just being in nature reduces exhaustion and increases your get-up-and-go!
Take some time to check out the fishies. Ever wondered why there are always fish tanks in your doctor’s or dentist’s office. Research conducted found that only five minutes of contact with aquariums, or other nature-like features, significantly decreased feelings of stress anger, fear and other unpleasant emotions.
Listen to some music. Music can elicit feelings of euphoria and intense pleasure in the human brain. Music increases the production of dopamine, the neurotransmitter that plays an important role in relaxation by decreasing the production of stress hormones. We may also look to our favorite playlists when we’re feeling stressed or need a moment of peace.
Meditate. OK, so this isn’t a wacky way to relax, but it’s one that’s almost guaranteed to work. Meditation is a scientically proven way to reduce stress and negative emotions in the body according to the Mayo Clinic. When you meditate, which can be accomplished through guided meditation or other forms such as yoga or Tai Chi, be sure to dim the lights and set a soothing atmosphere.
http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/stress-management/national-relaxation-day-pictures.htm