Previous slide Next slide Carousel slide Pause slide movement Resume slide movement
use left or right arrow keys to navigate the tab,
Page First page Last page More pages Next page Previous page
Press Enter or Space to expand or collapse and use down arrow to navigate to the tab content
close menu open menu
Click to read more about this recipe
Includes
Your webbrowser is outdated and no longer supported by Microsoft Windows. Please update to a newer browser by downloading one of these free alternatives.
Relaxation techniques

Quick relaxation techniques

Those of us who want to lead a healthy lifestyle tend to dedicate a lot of time to staying active and eating right. However, it’s just as important to switch off now and then and relax properly. With the stresses of day-to-day life, it can be hard to find the time – so here are some instant relaxation techniques that be slotted into even the busiest lifestyle.

Quick fixes: Instant relaxation techniques

Whether it’s the morning commute, a tough meeting at work, or simply a busier day than usual, these techniques can be done at any time you need to relax quickly.

  • Calm your breathing. This quick relaxation technique can have an immediate affect on how we experience stress, helping us calm down. Stay still, breathing in deeply for five seconds. Hold the breath a moment, and then breathe out slowly for another five seconds. It should feel comfortable, so if you need to take less time, do. Keep going until you feel the stress ebb away.
  • Find a focus. If you find yourself in a stressful situation, try being present in the moment. Focus on one object or physical sensation as you use the breathing exercise above to clear your mind.
  • Get outside. Take a break from whatever it is that’s causing you stress to get some perspective. If possible, try to go for a short walk and observe the world around you.
  • Listen to music. Have a soothing soundtrack up your sleeve to turn on at times of the day when you need to chill. Focusing on sounds as opposed to a screen or conversation around you can help you recentre.

Stress-busters

When it comes to relaxation techniques for stress, practicing every day can make a big difference in the long run. Try these methods in the morning or evening and see if you notice a difference.

  • Muscle relaxation. Lying down, mentally scan your body for areas of tension. Starting with the feet and working your way up your entire body, tense and relax each group of muscles.
  • Meditation. Often heralded as one of the best relaxation techniques to reduce stress, meditation can be beneficial for those who want to have a more relaxed perspective. Even if it’s just ten minutes, a guided meditation can help you slow down. There are several apps out there that can help you get started, like Headspace, Calm and Buddhify. Or try one of the guided meditation videos available on YouTube.

If you’ve felt inspired to try these stress relaxation techniques, why not sign up to the ProActiv newsletter and get healthy lifestyle tips delivered straight to your inbox? Click here to find out more.