Stress Soother

One way I find very useful for dealing with stress is deep breathing meditation. It is very simple, and it can be done pretty much everywhere. It can be done for as long or as little as one wants; however I like to spend at least ten minutes on the meditation.

Deep breathing meditation relaxes the body and the mind. When I have finished meditating, I always feel more able to approach difficult tasks, less tense, and my mind is more focused.

So how do you do it?

1. Find a comfortable position where your back is fully "erect" or straight. This can be with your legs crossed as shown in the picture above, or laying down on your back. 

2. Close your eyes. Take a deep breath by extending your abdominal muscles outward. Sometimes I like to think of gathering all of the toxic stress in my stomach. 

3. Keep your eyes closed Exhale slowly through your mouth and/or nose. I picture releasing all of the toxic stress in my stomach. 

4. Repeat steps 2 & 3! 

Tips:

• I find it helpful to choose one thing to focus on while I'm meditating. It can be your breathing, the sound of a fan, etc. Just make sure its not your next upcoming homework assignment! 
• Try to make sure your inhaling and exhaling breaths are "even." To get started, I usually count to ten while inhaling and exhaling, and continue to do so until I've gotten into a rhythm.  
• Stay still! Choose the comfortable position before you begin, switching positions and opening your eyes, etc. can be really distracting and hinder your relaxation. 
• Remember: This is YOUR stress reliever! You can do whatever you want to aid in the relaxation progress. Light a candle, play some classical music, sit outside.. whatever!