How to Relax

When a baby is in the womb, the rhythm of the mother's heartbeat is the first exposure to music. Throughout life we respond to our preferred style of music; the soothing effects of that music reduce heart rates, raise body temperatures, and relax us. Each person has an ideal spot to unwind: perhaps a car ride with the music turned up, or a peaceful walk with headphones or MP3 players setting the pace; maybe lounging outdoors with sounds of nature and music playing, the smells of cut grass and summer flowers, and the caress of a gentle breeze.

Others settle into their recliner or crawl into bed, imagining the body a sawdust doll, heavy and motionless, the sawdust slowly draining out, taking with it stress and fatigue, as the mind drinks in the calming sounds. For some, a warm bath is the ultimate form of relaxation, music softly playing, lights out, and candles gently flickering. The smells of incense burning or aromatic oils simmering make methods of relaxation a more pleasurable experience.