Breathing and stretching
One relaxation exercise you can do at your desk is to sit up stright in your chair, extend your arms, cross and grasp your hands. Now, pull your hands under and up to your chest. Next, take in a slow and deep breath inhaling as much as posssible and exhale while firmly holding your hands to your chest. Each time it will stretch the muscles in your back and chest and give you a feeling of relaxation.
David, Interesting to hear. It sounds like you have developed an involuntary coping mechanism - one that helps you stay calm when others are stressed. Nice!
Dr. Melissa Read
I have realized that I streach when I am dealing with students, this is something that I was unaware that I was doing. I noticed that I streach when talking to a student that has a difficult question, this seems to clear my mind and lets me think more clearly
I have actually never tried this, but it does sound like a great idea!
I find just walking out in the open and taking deep breaths really helps me. Inhale with the nose and exhale through tthe mouth for about 15 min and I can feel my stress level going down.
-Shalchian
I enjoy yoga classes, but because I work every single day the only thing I can do is yoga at home. So, waking up a little earlier or before bed time I am able to practice yoga techniques which results in peaceful sleep.
I've tried Tai Chi and it is wonderful. Also Yoga help me alot. I'm in a much better place after class.
This is a nice stretch. I routinely have my class take some slow deep breaths before an exam. It helps everyone calm down.
Yes, stress often causes muscles to feel tense. This can lead to short and long term back pain. Addressing the root or cause of stress can make a big difference on the way your back feels.
That is a good solution, I just tried it and it works, I can feel my muscles relax. I can feel the muscles in my neck and shoulder to tense up and ache.
This is a perfect way to relax and clear your mind. It can be done between classes -- and it is also a healthy exercise which so many of us do not make the time to do.
Indeed true Julius. Stretching and breathing are both such great techniques for reducing stress --and they can take place anywhere.
Thanks for the tip James. Tai Chi sounds like a wonderful way to deal with stress and a great way to focus too!
finding a moment to stretch and breath only helps you with relaxing and clearing your mind. I think its very important to do. This is a great way to begin and a great suggestion on getting a moment in for yourself.
Ive found that tai chi was very helpful, not only for stress but for daily energy and balance. It is low impact and they even have videos you can follow along with. Even when im not experiencing much stress, tai chi helps me get the day off to a good start.
Excellent recommendation James! Thanks for the details on your approach. What's great about this one is you can do it in between classes - right there on campus!
