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What is relaxation, and why do we need it?
Modern-day life is fast and demanding. We're bombarded with information, we work long hours, we push ourselves to meet deadlines and then worry about what we 'should' have done or what we still 'need' to do. We're continually required to adapt to new situations and our minds are constantly 'on the go' - even when we're sitting still! Many of us have forgotten how to relax and very few of us allow ourselves the deep rest needed to restore our bodies and minds.
A hectic and stressed lifestyle can have serious implications for our health. Anxiety and depression, aggression, insomnia, fatigue, pain, high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, digestive disorders and impaired immune functioning are all consistent with prolonged stress.
When we think of relaxation we usually think of activities like watching TV, catching up with friends, playing sport or lying by the beach. All of these activities have a place in a balanced lifestyle. However, whilst they may be enjoyable, most of these activities are unable to provide the deep rest needed to restore and recharge our bodies and minds. In fact, many of these activities can actually place more strain on an already over-stimulated nervous system.
Relaxation isn't just about taking time-out or enjoying a hobby. Relaxation is a physiological state of deep rest where the body's metabolism actually slows down.
Relaxation acts to balance the strain placed on our bodies through stress. When we are relaxed every system of the body has the opportunity to repair and rejuvenate. This is the process of natural healing, and the benefits are more than just physical. Relaxation works to calm and quieten the mind, leading to improved concentration, increased mental clarity and a heightened sense of general wellbeing.
Relaxation doesn't just feel good, it can actually help us to break free from our stress-prone habit patterns. When we are free from tension and worry we are able to think more clearly, function more efficiently and make healthier choices about the way we live.
Would you like to become deeply relaxed? Select an option from the links below!
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