The goal of relaxation is to reverse or prevent the impact that stressors have on our body. Your stressors might include things like work/study deadlines, a difficult boss, family conflict or illness, or even built up anxiety. To encourage the body’s relaxation response we want to engage in activities that slow breathing, reduce muscle tension and decrease blood pressure. Here are five things you can do to relax, PLUS there’s a GIVEAWAY of a Homedics Foot and Calf Massager worth $319.95!
1. Get a massage
A massage can help reduce stress by helping lower your blood pressure (in the short term), improve peripheral circulation, reduce muscle tension and give you a set amount of time where you have to do nothing. Whilst going to a day spa is a wonderful way to experience a massage, it isn’t the only way. There are more cost effective manners that allow massage at home. You might consider an electric massaging device like the Homedics foot and calf massager (pictured above, you can win one the same – see below!); or find a loving family member that’s willing to massage you! I find listening to music or reading a book is another great way to take my mind away from the daily stressors.
2. Take some time to meditate and journal
I find meditation on a bible passage really grounding. It reminds me how loving my creator is and puts things in perspective – God has my back, I can give him my concerns and let them go! This helps me relax! My favourite verse to meditate on is Isaiah 41:8-10. Sometimes trusting God with stressors can be hard and I’ve written about why that is the case here.
Journaling also reduces stress by sorting out what’s going on in your head. I’m a list maker so for me, I love using a journal to mind map what’s worrying me, then noting action points for each and prioritising them so I know where to from here. 
3. Go for a walk outside
Getting some fresh air and your daily dose of vitamin D from the sun can help clear your head and at the same time boosts your endorphins levels. This is also a great way to keep focused on something (the environment around you) whilst reflecting at the same time.
4. Have Coffee with a Friend
Cute coffee shops! Friends! Coffee & Cake! Who doesn’t love these!? Take a good friend, chat and I guarantee that you will feel much better afterwards.
5. Watch a Movie
Watching TV allows you to leave your world filled with stressors and get lost in someone else’s world. Comedies are also great to watch, those laughs get the endorphins pumping!
GIVEAWAY! Win a Homedics Foot & Calf Massager (RRP $319)
This giveaway has now CLOSED. Congratulations to the winner – Anastasia!
When gifted the Homedics Ultimate Compression Foot & Calf Massager, I was really surprised how good the it actually was. The compression from the 4 kneading discs was particularly good! It offers three massage styles including compression, vibration and kneading for a deep relaxing foot and calf massage. A strategically placed control panel allows you to easily select your preferred massage function and the soothing heat provides comfort to loosen sore and tired muscles. 
Set it up whilst you’re watching TV, in a quiet room whilst meditating or even in your baby’s nursery like I have. I feel a little bit spoilt to have a massage whilst breast feeding – especially at those 2am feeds! You can get your hands on one by entering competition below or purchasing from Myer, Good Guys, Shaver Shop and Betta Electrical. 
To enter:
Simply tell me in the comments below what causes you stress and how you relax. Competition closes midnight 29 September 2016. Australian entrants only. Winners contacted via email and announced on this post.
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Amy Darcy
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