It is possible to fit in several mini-relaxations each day. Try them while talking on the phone, waiting in line, etc.

• Become aware of self:
  Am I clenching my teeth?
  Is my neck tight?
  Am I silently angry?

• Self-talk: smile inwardly and say "I accept the fact that I can be calm"

• Do the 7-11: breathe in for 7 seconds and out for 8 to 11 seconds.

• Frequent checks to see if you are breath holding, and remember deep rhythm breathing (7- 11).

• Use a green dot on your watch, telephone, desk, pen, kitchen table, or bathroom mirror as a cue to RELAX and remind yourself to let go and unhurry.

• Let go of the tight jaw, strained eyes, wrinkled forehead, neck tightness, breathe out as you let the tight area go.

• This technique is easy to learn and a wonderful tool to help with a stressful moment.

 

Courtesy of Dr. Theo De Gagné - theo@drtheo.ca - www.drtheo.ca