More Ways to Reduce Your Stress

I guess the theme of my blog entries this week should give you a clue about my own mindset as we work our way up to Christmas. As I put together the list of stress-reducing workouts and techniques (see below), I thought about how much I'd love to actually try these techniques rather than just write about them. Then it hit me that, if I'm telling you to find time to reduce stress, I should at least be willing to follow my own advice.

Why not join me and choose at least one of the stress reduction exercises below. It may just make you feel better.

• Yoga for Insomnia. I often have trouble sleeping when I get stressed out. Then I get cranky, which stresses me out, which keeps me up at night...and on and on. Having some relaxing rituals can often help get your mind and body ready for sleep and Yoga Guide, Ann Pizer, has some great ideas for yoga breathing and exercises for relaxation.
• Corpse Pose. Playing dead is one way to deal with stress – if you don’t move, maybe they’ll just go away. But you can also use Corpse Pose as a way to completely relax your body.
• 5-Minute Pilates. These moves are specifically designed to help you relax and shut out the world for, well, at least 5 minutes.
• How to Relax. Isn't it sad that we need directions for how to relax? Actually, this how-to from Longevity Guide Mark Stibich covers the basics of meditation, which is just one way to relax. You may need to lock your door or put out a do not disturb sign, but it’s worth it for how refreshed and relax you’ll feel.
• Video: Two Minute Relaxation Technique. Even you have two minutes to relax, don't you? If so, check out this few breathing techniques in this video that are designed to help you calm down.