Relaxation Techniques For Stress Management

The unhealthy affects of stress can be evidenced in physical as well as mental and emotional health problems. Besides heart and digestive problems, stress can contribute to overall muscle aches, stiffness and even pain.

Relaxation techniques can help manage the affects of stress on the body as well as the mind. There are various techniques one can use to experience a state of relaxation and calmness, which require little time or effort on the part of the individual seeking to benefit from them.

Here is one relaxation technique that many people have found beneficial in managing the level of stress they experience.

Stair Step Relaxation Technique

Begin with a series of deep, cleansing breaths. Feel your body relax, as you slowly breath in and out. It can be helpful to imagine the tension and stress leaving your body as you exhale, while peace and calm fill you, as you inhale clean, fresh air.
 
Once you have done this for a period of two to three minutes, begin to experience the tension leaving your muscles, one at a time.

Once you are ready, picture yourself at the top of a flight of 10 stairs. Take one step down this set of stairs, and imagine that your body, your mind, and your spirit feel more relaxed, and more at ease as you reach this step. Say the number "One" as you descend.

With each succeeding step you can experience a deeper and deeper state of calm and relaxation. As you descend upon each step say the corresponding number of the step you are on.

When you reach 10, which is at the bottom of this set of steps, you will be entirely calm and relaxed. Any problems or worries you had will have vanished, and you will feel totally at peace.

Once you have experienced this state for a moment or two, you will be ready to come back up the set of stairs. With each step that you climb, you will become a little more awake and alert to your surroundings.

Your body and mind will remain at calm and at peace even after you return to the final step. You will feel renewed energy, and a renewed sense of purpose and joy, as you return to the top of the stairs.