Mental Health

Fill Your Calendar with Relaxation By Combining 5 Typical Daily Routines with Meditation

By Cheri Cheng | Update Date: May 18, 2013 02:14 PM EDT

Meditation allows muscles to relax and the mind to calm down. Meditation, when done right, can relieve stress and promote healthy cognitive thinking and behavior. Oftentimes, meditation requires the individual to devote a chunk of time in one's daily schedule, but this amount of time might not be available in every one's busy calendar. Even though people might not be able to take a mental and physical break from the world, there are five ways to incorporate meditation routines into one's daily activities. 

Tip #1 - Massage

Everyone usually starts off the day in the bathroom. While washing your face and brushing your teeth, focus on the feel of the water. It is important to adjust the water to your liking and massage your face to achieve a soothing effect. Not only will your face be cleaned, your head will clear up and wake up prepared for the day. Avoid rushing through this routine since feeling great first thing in the morning can lead to more positive emotions later on in the day.  

Tip #2 - Breathe

Early morning traffic, whether it is public transportation or waiting on a line, can be easily frustrating. In these moments, instead of allowing busy mornings to negatively affect your day, remember the importance of breathing. Take a minute or two to focus on your breathing. Pay attention to how air is entering and exiting your body and clear your mind to concentrate on this task. By diverting your attention to breathing, waiting on a line might become less stressful.

Tip #3 - Taste

Eating and enjoying what you eat are very important in contributing to overall satisfaction.  When it is time to pick a meal, choose wisely. Eat something that will satisfy not only your cravings, but also any diet goals you might have. If you are on a diet, choosing something that does not fit in with your goals could lead to feelings of regret later on in the day. Therefore, it is important to take the time to think about what you are eating. Really taste your food and appreciate the flavors.

Tip #4 - Walk

It should be no surprise that walking in general has healthy benefits. Not only does walking provide a form of exercise, it can also be a time to relax and forget about work or other stressors at the moment. Even if you do not have time to take a long leisurely stroll, simply getting up and walking around the office can help with relaxation. Sitting for too long can tense up the body, which is why walking and stretching can relieve aches. Meditating while walking should involve a nice pace with concentrated breathing. Do not simple jolt from one spot to the other without focusing on your movements and how they affect your body.

Tip #5 - Communication

For some people, just one bad conversation can spoil the entire day. Whether or not it is a nasty or friendly exchange between strangers or friends and family, it is important to focus on word selection. Using words that help you express your thoughts efficiently while maintaining a level of respect for one another can lead to overall happiness. Social relationships and interactions are vital in life, and having good ones can make you feel better about yourself and the word. Avoid talking down to others as well as talking down about yourself.

So, the next time you need to relax but might not have space on your calendar to schedule in yoga or a meditation class, focus on these five tips to get you by. 

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