5 ways to bring more relaxation to your life
By Carla Snuggs

Relaxation is beneficial and change the way you feel and also your health. We often forget the importance of relaxation from time to time, however these tips are here to help ensure you don’t and also realize how easy it is.

Have A Hug

A hug is a known mood booster, with research findings showing that enjoying a good, old fashioned cuddle is something that can greatly reduce stress. When you engage in physical contact, it has been proven to reduce the levels of oxytocin, or the love hormone, in your brain. It also works to reduce the levels of the stress hormone that is known as cortisol, which can put us in a better, more relaxed frame of mind. Of course, human affection is not going to be all that counts, as owning a pet has also proven to be linked with a reduction in stress levels. Sometimes, even playing with a pet for a while can help you to wind down after a stressful day.

Pamper Yourself

This is actually one of the best and most luxurious ways to unwind and treat yourself to a bit of pampering. If you have a budget that allows it, you could have someone pamper you by making your way to a beauty salon or health spa for treatments like massage, facial, or anything else that helps you to unwind – foot baths and foot massagers can be good. If you are short on funds, you can also embark on pampering yourself by running a nice bath, laying back in a face mask and having candles lit and calming music playing.

Have A Good Laugh

Laughter is an element of life that is known for therapeutic effects. As a matter of fact, many places now offer laughter yoga classes or yoga therapy for anyone who is looking to cut back on stress, boost mood and improve upon their health. Studies have shown that even anticipating laughter can help with lifting spirits, reducing stress levels in the body and making you feel good overall. Even if you are able to chill out with a funny book, a comedy on television or a fun discussion with a friend, you will have a better chance of relaxing.

Try Aromatherapy

When you want to utilize all of your senses, you can think about turning your home into a sanctuary that fosters relaxation with scented candles and essential oils. Some great oils that you can use for relaxation include lavender, chamomile, neroli, ylang ylang and bergamot. Use such oils by adding a few drops into your bath, adding into water to be used as room spray, as a spritzer for your skin or used in an oil burner or diffuser. It’s also great to receive an aromatherapy or tantric massage.

Get In The Moment

There are always different things that you can do to help you fully relax. If you are not present in the moment, however, you will be unlikely to get the full benefit from such techniques. If you are having a hard time switching off the stress and casting out past regrets or worries about the future, think about making a list of the things that need to be done and what you can think about at a later date. You can deal with each of them in time, allowing you some wiggle room to turn off your mind, set the worries aside and enjoy the moment.

Image courtesy W-dog.net