How to Relax

I'm a huge fan of the festive season, but sometimes things can hectic and you need to find a way to relax! Here's a short exercise from the BBC that helps you to do just that. Read through the article, complete the gaps and then follow the instructions.

Missing Words

distracting
mind
tense
interrupted
deep
empty
information
tension

Relax

Planned relaxation calms anxiety and helps your body and _1_ recover from everyday rush and stress. Music, a long soak in the bath, or a walk in the park do the trick for some people, but for others it's not so easy. If you feel you need help with learning to relax, try a relaxation or meditation class. Your GP and local library will have _2_ about these.

Choose a quiet place where you won't be _3_.
Before you start, do a few gentle stretching exercises to relieve muscular _4_.
Start to breathe slowly and deeply, in a calm and effortless way.
Gently _5_, then relax, each part of your body, starting with your feet and working your way up to your face and head.
As you focus on each area, think of warmth, heaviness and relaxation.
Push any _6_ thoughts to the back of your mind; imagine them floating away.
Don't try to relax; simply let go of the tension in your muscles and allow them to become relaxed.
Let your mind go _7_. Some people find it helpful to visualise a calm, beautiful place such as a garden or meadow.
Stay like this for about 20 minutes, then take some _8_ breaths and open your eyes, but stay sitting or lying for a few moments before you get up.