In times of deadline pressure, weekends full of leisure and sports plans and a wide variety of professional obligations, the topic of relaxation is neglected for many people. It is well known that stress is one of the main causes of all physical and psychological problems and yet many of us are exposed to it too often and too severely. Unfortunately, some people still consider taking time out and consciously integrating periods of rest for the body and mind into everyday life as a waste of time. Integrating extended periods of rest into the day is not only important for physical performance, but also especially for our psyche. The decision is ours: do we give in to stress or do we declare war on it and put our mental and physical needs first. In the following article we will show you why regular periods of rest and relaxation have a healing effect on our entire organism.
Relaxation protects our heart
It is not unknown that cardiovascular disorders, high blood pressure and heart attacks can be traced back to too high a level of stress and too little rest. All kinds of stress or internal tension can cause the human heart to not function properly and become unbalanced. So they not only put a strain on our heads and cause internal tension, but also have a direct effect on heart health. The opposite applies to absolute relaxation phases: here our heart muscle also has the opportunity to follow its usual rhythm, does not become out of balance and can also beat in a much more relaxed manner by releasing our tension.
Immune boost
When we are relaxed, our immune system can function optimally and we are less likely to catch a cold. Studies show that when we suffer from chronic stress, we are twice as likely to catch a cold or flu-like infection. This is because the body is so strained by the stress that the cells in the immune system become permeable and the immune system can no longer activate all of its forces.
The very specific relaxation technique
Every physical relaxation phase contributes to the mind and spirit becoming increasingly more relaxed. Despite this, just “sitting still” or taking a short nap on the sofa is not enough to bring about complete relaxation for the body and mind. What is important here is a specific relaxation technique that is suitable for us personally, which can generate positive physical reactions and interrupt the flow of everyday thoughts so that we can really find peace.
Performance for body and soul
All relaxation methods help us to cope better with stressful situations, to be more productive and to improve our ability to concentrate and attentiveness. In this mode, it is also easier for us to make the right decisions or deal well with difficult situations. When a person is relaxed, their perception of pain and their ability to cope with pain also change. Just 5 to 10 minutes a day - provided you have found a suitable relaxation technique for yourself - are enough to recharge your batteries and achieve better inner balance.
Experiencing peace and serenity releases an inner energy that we can use both mentally and physically. We are, so to speak, strengthened from the inside out - this affects the entire organism, our emotions and our mood. If we bring our body into a relaxed, balanced state (such as during meditation or yoga), this can even activate self-healing powers. We consciously take time for ourselves, are mindful and bring body and mind into a common flow from which we can draw powerful energy on both a mental and physical level.
Strengthened alpha waves and positive emotions
Meditation is a great way to relax as it strengthens our alpha waves in the brain. With the active and strengthened alpha waves, we have the opportunity to better block out negative thought structures and concentrate on the positive things in life. As a result, we can go through the day more fulfilled and happier - positive emotions and feelings of happiness can develop better. Studies have shown that people who treat themselves to a daily relaxation break and pay attention to their entire organism are less likely to suffer from depressive fluctuations and are also less likely to develop depression.
Here and now
Our bodies are not designed to be exposed to constant stress and to always think about what needs to be done, when and how it should be done. Thinking about “if” and “then” obscures our realistic view of the now. If your thoughts are already two days in the future or if you are tensely questioning decisions that have already been made, it is not possible for us to concentrate on the moment, let alone be relaxed. For inner serenity and a high level of relaxation, it is important that you are in the here and now and especially that you feel this. Relaxing means one thing above all: just being!
Sources:
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/14/stress-awareness-day-relaxation-benefits_n_1424820.html
https://www.health-n-life.com/health-prevention/mental-health/relaxation-why-is-it-so-important/
