As we near the end of this month, we are also bringing the year 2012 to a close. All the highs and lows we experienced during the past 12 months are culminating in the busiest month of the year. With Christmas just around the corner, December has become notorious for trying to do too much in too little time, while watching your “to do list” grow longer by the minute. With that in mind, I’m suggesting an exercise to ease you out of the “fast lane” and onto the “road to relaxation”.
You will need to do the following:
1) Reserve 5 to 10 minutes during the day, preferably when no one else is home.
2) Find a quiet part of the home where you won’t be disturbed.
3) Turn on the telephone answering machine.
4) Close the shades or dim the lights.
5) Light a pleasantly scented candle (my favorite is lavender).
6) Turn on your favorite soft and relaxing music.
7) Lie down or sit in a comfortable supported position.
8) Snuggle under a soft, cozy blanket and close your eyes.
Exercise: Part 1
• Breathe in deeply through your nose, focusing on the calming fragrance.
• Let your tongue lightly touch the roof of your mouth, just behind the top teeth.
• As you release the breath, relax your tongue and mouth, allowing your lips to part and lightly blow out your stress with each exhalation.
Exercise: Part 2
• As you continue to breathe effortlessly, allow your body to dissolve into the surface you are sitting or lying on. Imagine your body and thoughts dissolving and floating away.
Exercise: Part 3
• Squeeze your shoulder blades together for 3 seconds or more, without holding your breath. Release the shoulder blade squeeze.
• Repeat the shoulder blade squeeze and release two more times.
• Soften the eyelids and facial muscles, and feel life’s pressures dissolving and flowing away.
Exercise: Part 4
• Complete the exercise by sighing out loud with each exhalation.
• Repeat a positive affirmation out loud or in your mind, such as “All is well” or “I am at peace”.
• As you rouse from this relaxing exercise, clasp your hands and stretch your arms above the head, stretching from the tip of the toes to the top of your head.
Warning: You may fall asleep during this exercise, which means you need more sleep!
Use this exercise as many times as possible throughout the holiday season and you will see what a little tender loving care will do to create inward peace as you navigate your busy schedule!
Wishing you and your family a joy-filled year of laughter, relaxation and blessings beyond belief.
Warmest regards,
Mary Ann Wilson
P.S. If you are interested in our Relaxation DVD click here.
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