School is starting back up for some. The business world is coming off Summer vacations with no hope of a break in the near future. And family, money, and relationship stresses are always on us in some capacity. So, how can you relax, release some of the tension? Often the things we think of as relaxing don't slow us down too much (watching TV, movies, music, games, competitive events, video games). Sometimes you have to think outside the box, or just think in a more basic way. Here are a few ideas...

1. Take a Hike - Not a difficult hike. No Gu or Powerbars allowed. Just a stroll in the woods. Where you can just slow down and take a gander at all that is nature. Stop and pick a flower.
2. Yoga - Some people think yoga is dumb. Those people haven't tried yoga. It is a slow form of exercise which doesn't stress the body. It works you out through slow stretches and poses.
3. Take a Bath - Yeah, just run some hot water in the tub and get in. Don't take a book or magazine, don't talk to anyone. Just lay there and close your eyes. Bubbles optional.
4. Meditate - People have been meditating for thousands of years. It requires one thing, sitting. The Buddhists think it is the path to enlightenment. Many other religions such as Hinduism and Christianity use it to reach into themselves and find their faith. But meditation can be an amazing relaxation technique. Just sit, close your eyes or crack them, breathe deeply, and try not to think about anything.
5. Hammock Time - In nice weather this is an awesome relaxation method. All that is needed is a hammock, two trees, and a few hours to nap or stare at the clouds or swaying branches. Cold-uns recommended.
6. Napping - This doesn't mean fall asleep because you are exhausted in front of the tube. It doesn't mean going to bed early. It means taking some time after work or on a weekend afternoon and going to your bedroom, drawing the shades, and sleeping. Don't set the alarm, just wake up whenever your body is ready. Seriously, just forget about that "stuff" you have to do for a few hours.
7. Religious Visit - If you are religious, visit a holy place. Don't go seeking an answer this time. Don't go to talk to anyone. Just go and walk around or sit. Be in the presence of something bigger.
8. Massage - I got a massage recently, I did a 3 hours day spa while in Peru... ahhhhhh. It was the first time I had been through anything like that. Stone massages, hot tubs, Swedish massage, aromatherapy, reflexology... they all work.
9. Pet Time - If you have a pet, you know how they can stress you out sometimes. But on the flip side, they can be extremely calming. Just lay on the floor with your pooch or kitty for a while and chill.
10. Plan a Vacation - Pick a place on your top 10 list of places to go, or just spin the globe and point at a place. Hop online and look for deals. Grab the calendar and set a date. Get your significant other or friends on board. Ask for time off work. And make a deposit on the trip to commit yourself. Travel is easier than most people think, and it gives you something to be excited about and look forward to.

Obviously everyone has their own way to relax. But trying a new or different way to relax can be a great way to reward yourself or get away from it all.

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