Stress Free in 10 minutes

If the pace of life threatens to spin out of control, a minute or two is often all it takes to calm down. Here are 7 simple ways to chill out and recharge.

Do nothing

At least once during the day, take five or ten minutes to sit quietly and do nothing. Focus on the sounds around you, your emotions and any tension in your neck, shoulders, arms, chest, etc. Regain a sense of control – and ease stress.

Laugh out loud

Keep something handy that makes you laugh. It could be a collection of your favorite comic strips, or a funny e-mail from a friend or family. You could even take a few moments to think about watching your favorite comedy serial.

Tune in

When you face a daunting task, play soothing music – be it classical, country or jazz. Whatever music feels most calming to you is the one that’s most likely to help ease stress. At work, you can use the CD drive on your computer to keep the music ready.

Think happy

Focus on someone or something you care deeply about for anywhere from 15 seconds to 5 minutes. Alternatively, picture a scene from a peaceful vacation. A phrase that makes you feel positive about yourself and the world can also work.

Hit the road

Get up from your desk or couch –wherever you are- and take a 10 minute walk.

Breathe easy

We tend to take quick, shallow breaths, especially when we’re stressed. For five minutes, slow your breathing down to about six deep-belly breaths a minute. Taking a few breaths forces you to stretch your shoulders and loosen up tight muscles.

Rise relaxed

Right before bed, and after the alarm goes off in the morning, take five minutes to relax your entire body. Start by tensing your toes, and then consciously relax them. Move on to the muscles in your feet and then calves, upper legs, buttocks, moving upwards until you end by scrunching up and then relaxing the muscles in your face.