There are many relaxation techniques designed to reduce your stress and promote wellness. Listening to music is one of the best ways to unwind after a long day's worth of work or to help you fall asleep. However, listening to the right kinds of music to reduce stress is vital when using this relaxation technique.
Instructions
1. Choose your music wisely. Calm, tranquil music is always preferable in relaxation techniques over heavy metal or rap. Your brain needs quiet, gentle stimulation in order to lower your stress level.
2. Opt for specialized "relaxation" soundtracks. Plenty of stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond and Target sell spa soundtracks, music designed for yoga and other peaceful tracks. Some CDs are only natural sounds, such as waves of the ocean or rain falling.
3. Prepare to nap with relaxing music you've chosen to de-stress with. Turn off your cell phone, shut the door and remove any distractions typically ruling your life. Let your family know you need a few minutes to yourself. Don't check your Blackberry and check out on your "normal routine."
4. Pick out your favorite relaxation CD and rest your head on a pillow. You can lay down on the couch, in an armchair, or even a bed. Darken the room and turn the soundtrack on quietly.
5. As the music is playing, think "happy" thoughts. Envision the day you graduated from college. Imagine being at your future wedding. Pretend you're walking on a pebbly beach in Maui. Really absorb the music and let it "take you away" so to speak.
6. Practice deep breathing. As your calming music plays, breathe in and out slowly. Count to ten and begin breathing in and out once more. Really listen to your breathing and as you exhale, picture yourself ridding your body of toxins, negative thoughts and stress.
7. Let yourself drift away into a stress-free sleep. If you fall asleep, you've accomplished your goal of calming yourself down. You may even wish to leave the music on softly throughout the night.
Tags: check your, fall asleep, relaxation techniques, your stress