The Relaxation Station

Today hit me like a ton of bricks. The late night Santa sightings, early morning present unwrapping, and overabundance of sugary treats had finally caught up with me. By 3 pm on Monday afternoon, I began to feel the ill effects of the whirlwind holiday weekend. Naturally, the holidays are a time of stress, so read the following tips and begin to unwind.

1) Take a long, hot shower. Water has always been a source of comfort and relaxation for me. Something about a steamy shower is enough to turn me to mush. Plus, the hot water is awesome for soothing tight, sore muscles. An extra tip: try showering in the dark. It sounds silly but is surprisingly super relaxing. Suds up in there using Stress Relief - Eucalyptus Spearmint shower gel from Bath and Body Works. The scent is said to "clear the mind, uplift the spirits, improve concentration, and help the mind to focus."



2) Give yourself a massage. I like to use a muscle rub like Icy Hot to really penetrate and relax my muscles. You can use a tennis ball to de-stress the back and feet. Put the tennis ball in between your back and the wall and move around, allowing the tennis ball to get into your shoulder blades and loosen kinks. Place the tennis ball on the floor and place your foot over the ball, rolling as you go. Instant foot massage.



3) Embrace the power of aromatherapy. I use to think aromatherapy was crap. However, after spending over a year with constant tension headaches, I was willing to try whatever was on the market for relief. Insert Origins Peace of Mind, On-the-spot relief. This stuff is a god send! This elixir, formulated with natural ingredients, helps zap headaches and tension instantly. Apply two dabs to the temples, back of the head, and ear lops and tension and pressure begin to melt away. The tingling sensation lets you know this stuff is working. Amazing, Period.



4) Breathe. It sounds so simple but deep breathing can go a long way. When I feel tense, I close my eyes and take a deep breath in, hold it for a few seconds, then slowly let the air out through my nose.

5) Invest in a good nature CD. When I was in college my roommate, bless her soul, allowed me to listen to the sounds of rainwater all night long. Something about the pitter patter of rain - even from computer speakers - was enough to quiet my racing mind and relax my body. Maybe rain doesn't do it for you? If not, there are plenty of options, including: ocean waves, forest sounds, babbling brooks, and jungle noises.