5 simple steps to relaxation

Posted by Nancy Janiola on Sunday, February 01, 2009 in trivia: stress and relaxation,

Take a peaceful break from your hectic, fast-forward life. Regular meditation with its focus on breathing and concentration can help. This ancient Indian tradition has been shown to ease physical tension and calm the nervous system — providing relief from mental stress.

Here's how:

• Sit comfortably either on the floor or in a chair with your head and back straight.

• Begin with a few deep, cleansing breaths.

• Close your eyes and slowly breathe, at your own rhythm, through your nose.

• Aim to focus all your thoughts on your breath — the inhale, the exhale, the sensation, the sound. Don't fret if your mind begins to wander; that's natural for beginners. Just keep bringing your attention back to your breathing.

• Start with a 5 to 10 minute daily meditation, then work up to 15 to 20 minutes or more.