Are you stressed out from a busy day at work?  Are you looking for a way to relax?  Try one of these 10 techniques:

1. Meditate.  If you’ve been reading my blog, you are aware that I meditate regularly.  Sit comfortably in a chair or on the floor, close your eyes, and breathe.  I like to concentrate on my breath.  I follow the air as it enters my nostrils, filling my lungs, then exits through my nostrils or mouth.
2. Visualization.  If you have a busy mind and find it hard to meditate, visualization is a great technique.  Picture yourself on a warm sunny beach or lounging by a pool with a cool refreshing drink in your hand.  If you are not into warm vacations, picture yourself skiing down the mountain in Vail, Colorado with the wind blowing against your face and the exhilaration of being surrounded by a snowy landscape.
3. Breathe.  I know, everyone breathes every minute of every day, but try breathing deeply.  Really feel your belly, diaphragm, and chest expand as you inhale and deflate as you exhale.  Really empty all that stale air from your lungs.
4. Be Mindful.  Be aware of everything around you, whatever you are doing at this moment in time.  How does it feel?
5. Drink Chamomile Tea.  While green tea has plenty of antioxidants, some brands also have caffeine which can stimulate your agitation.  For a change, try straight Chamomile tea, a blend of Chamomile and mint tea, or another herbal tea.  Now sit back, put your feet up, and sip slowly.
6. Cuddle Up.  Show someone a little love.  Cuddle up with your pet, your husband/wife, your boyfriend/girlfriend.  A little hug goes a long way.
7. Massage.  I love massages and schedule one once a month to get all the kinks out of my neck and back.  If you can’t afford a masseuse, rub a little oil on your hands and give yourself a massage.
8. Take a Time Out.  When I find myself getting cranky, I like to lay on the floor and extend my legs up against a wall or raise my legs higher in the air in Sarvangansana or shoulder stand.  If you need a time out and you’re not at home, try closing your eyes, taking a few deep breaths, and visualize a quiet space.  Another great time out activity is to find a nice quiet corner and curl up with a good book.
9. Soft Music.  Soothing sounds rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.  Listen to some natural sounds like ocean waves or the wind rustling through the trees.  Music made from pure quartz crystal bowls is also extremely relaxing.
10. Positive Thoughts.  If your heart starts to race from all the stress building up during the day, take a few minutes to think about something positive in your life.  Think of a newborn baby, or someone you love.  If you can’t think of anything positive, go buy yourself a bouquet of flowers.

Ahhhh.  I’m feeling more relaxed already.  How do you relax?