Step by step: Relaxation made easy

A jog, a glass of wine by candlelight with classical music, or listening to birdsong? Everyone probably associates different activities with relaxation , because, as is so often the case, we are all different and can switch off in different situations. Therefore, it's important to listen to your body and understand what feels good to you.

The most common choice is between the following: Three types of relaxation are distinguished:

1. Acoustic type: Sounds from nature, such as the sound of the sea, allow this type to calm down and create a positive feeling.
2. Visual type: As the name suggests, this method uses visualization – meditation or recalling a pleasant memory creates well-being and peace.
3. Kinesthetic type: These people like to exert themselves after work or relax with a soothing sensory experience such as a massage.

Most people have one of these stress types more pronounced, but that doesn't mean we can only recharge our batteries in one way. And even though there are countless relaxation techniques, it doesn't always have to be complicated. The right music, a pleasant scent, or a long walk in the woods can easily calm us down and temporarily stop the racing thoughts. Try to consciously enjoy these moments and realize that sometimes doing nothing can be quite effective.

7 tips for a relaxed everyday life:

1. Deliberately switch off. These days, we're always and everywhere reachable and feel pressured to completely plan and efficiently use even our free time and rest periods. Perhaps simply gaze consciously into the distance instead of at your phone and reminisce about your last vacation, or consciously breathe when you notice you're in a stressful situation. As crazy as doing nothing might sound to us, there are many arguments in favor of la dolce far niente.
2. Integrate rituals into your daily routine by scheduling in periods of rest. For example, go to bed half an hour earlier to read, regularly start the weekend with a ten-minute meditation, or go outside for some fresh air during your lunch break.
3. Be patient. Some relaxation techniques take time. Breathing techniques or meditation might be difficult at first, but if you stick with it, you'll soon notice the positive effects.
4. Find your passion . When we truly enjoy something, we can become completely absorbed in the activity. In this so-called flow state, we temporarily lose touch with the outside world and simply feel fantastic afterward. Perhaps it's time to revisit an old hobby like painting, cooking, or playing music?
5. Have the courage to daydream. A pleasant memory can quickly transport us back to the positive emotional state we felt at the time. When, for example, were you last at the beach or another "power place" that evokes positive feelings? Your regular meeting with the boss probably isn't the right time, but why not let your thoughts wander on your way to work or in the shower with an aromatherapy tablet? A suitable scent can help you unwind, as our sense of smell is closely linked to our memory. Or can you not remember the perfume your first boyfriend/girlfriend wore?
6. Laugh until you drop. When we laugh, our bodies release endorphins – and it doesn't matter whether we're laughing artificially or genuinely finding something funny. So, the motto is: "Fake it till you make it." Think of a time when your friends really made you laugh, let your imagination run wild, and dress the people around you in funny outfits, or maybe even try laughter yoga.
7. Cuddle your cat, the neighbor's dog, your partner, your brother, or your best friend. Cuddling releases the hormone oxytocin, which not only reduces stress and anxiety but also strengthens the immune and cardiovascular systems.

I hope these tips will help you prepare for the next stressful situation and allow you to truly relax from time to time .

Yours, Marie xx