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What a combination of soothing words....nurture and naturally. We are not all body and no spirit. Our spirit affects our body and we can improve the health of our spirit in many ways.
Today's life of stress can take a toll on our body, our mind, our heart and our relationships. It pays to stop and assess our spirit health. There are activities and ideas that can assist you in reducing stress. Here are a few to get you started:
¨Harness the relaxation power of water. Take a long warm bath, an invigorating shower, a leisurely swim in a pool, or just sit and stare at some water....a fountain, an aquarium or a river.
¨Slip between the soft coolness of clean cotton sheets on your bed or snuggle up in a comfy chair in the sun and take a short nap.
¨Use the magic of aromatherapy: place a few drops of lavender, peppermint or chamomile essential oil on a tissue and inhale a few times.
¨Take a tea break. Make a pot or a cup of green tea or herb tea. Sip it and let your mind wander.
¨Take a walk outside. Breathe deeply ten times. Stare at a flower or a leaf for a few minutes. Notice the intricate patterns. Breathe deeply again.
¨Enjoy a piece of fruit or some fruit juice mixed with club soda over ice. This is refreshing and makes you feel better.
¨Talk with someone and let your feelings of stress out.
¨Massage your neck, hands and feet. This induces relaxation.
¨Read or watch something funny. Humor and laughter will reduce stress. Smile more.
¨Exercise will go a long way in busting up the effects of stress. Yoga, tai chi, and stretching are all gentle exercises that benefit body and mind.
¨Go out for a meal. Let someone wait on you for a change.
¨Pray and meditate. Immerse yourself in silence and solitude.
¨Cuddle up with a furry friend. Pets know just how to get rid of stress.
¨Visualize a peaceful place and mentally go there. Stay awhile. Return when you’re relaxed.
¨Perform an act of kindness. You cannot think of your own troubles when you are helping someone else with theirs.
¨Hum or sing.
¨Watch the clouds float by for five minutes.
¨Spend five or ten minutes in a garden or with plants.
    
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