Making time for relaxation can actually help you experience more energy. Other health benefits include better sleep and enhanced immunity.
By Alison Crane
What helps you relax? Reading a book? A bubble bath? A leisurely walk? For me, it is kayaking. I love the quiet of it. No loud motor or harsh sounds. Just the swish of the paddle dipping into the water and the sounds of nature around you. After being out on the water, I feel more centered and peaceful.
Relaxation’s connection to our health and well-being has made our ability to unwind vitally important. We spend our lifetimes making time for others but how often do we take time out for ourselves? The American Heart Association recommends making a conscious decision to do at least one thing every day that you enjoy.
Making time for relaxation can actually help you experience more energy. Other health benefits include better sleep and enhanced immunity. According to the Mayo Clinic, relaxation can benefit your heart by decreasing muscle tension and blood pressure while increasing your blood flow. When you consciously allow your body to relax it can actually increase your ability to concentrate and solve problems which can help you work more efficiently. All of this can also lead to smoother emotions and make you less likely to react physically to stress.
In 1984, fourth grader, Sean Moeller founded National Relaxation Day. He set August 15 aside as a day to do nothing of real value. On this day consider setting aside housework and real work and take a day to just relax. You might find that you are more productive by giving your body and mind a break.
You can get a free copy of Keys to Embracing Aging: Taking Time for You. Contact the Garland County Extension office at 501-623-6841 or visit us at 236 Woodbine St, Hot Springs, for more ways to relax or for stress management.
By the way, on August 15, 1988, Alex Carswell patented the modern stress ball. I think little Sean was on to something when he picked August 15 for National Relaxation Day. What will you be doing or not doing to relax that day?
Alison Crane is a Family and Consumer Sciences Agent with the Garland County Extension Service. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
