Learn To Relax

Improving sleep will help you manage stress. Managing stress will help you improve your sleep.

Relaxation Techniques

*  Help the body to relax when under stress. This minimizes the physical wear and tear from stress.

*  Help the mind relax. Where the mind goes, the body follows.

*  Help you to recognize body tension and work to reduce it. The more these techniques are practiced, the easier they are to do.

*  Help you resist stress. The more you practice, the more relaxed your natural state will become.

Plan Relaxing Activities

Do leisure activities during your week. Plan a variety of activities. Include both short and long ones. Try to make at least one activity something you plan to do regularly.

Here are a few ideas of activities you can try. For activities that are not part of your routine, write if and when you would like to try them.

Leisure & Recreation Activities

*  Take a warm bath

*  Read a book

*  Look through photo albums

*  Listen to music

*  Write in your journal or a notebook

*  Get a massage

*  Swim or play in a pool or lake

*  Knit, sew, or do another hobby

*  Watch a movie, especially a comedy

*  Do yoga

*  Meditate

*  Take a few deep breaths

*  Get a manicure or pedicure

*  Ride a bike

*  Go for a walk

*  Play with your pet

*  Play with animals at a pet store or pet shelter

*  Go to a park

*  Sit near water

*  Sketch what you see

*  Volunteer at a soup kitchen, shelter, or other place in the community

*  Write a letter or a card