I've been feeling stressful lately and came across this article. I saw this article long time ago (courtesy of Kent) and even printed it out. As i was cleaning my room, i came across the print out again (looks old and has turned yellowish).

Anyway here are the 10 Ways to Relax



10 Ways to Relax
Life is getting you down?
It needn’t, says Anne Witham—not if you follow her 10 practical steps to a mentally healthier lifestyle!

Ready for some peace and quiet? Want to bring some solitude to your hectic day? If so, then read on for 10 simple things you can do to bring silence and relaxation into your busy life.

1. Remember the door to your room can close.

Advise loved ones that you will be a much happier person if you occasionally take time to be alone. Do what’s needed to let go of stress and recover balance. This may mean stretching out on the bed, sitting on a meditation pillow, listening to music, or doing some gentle exercise. You may also like to sing, make art, or play an instrument.


2. Turn off the phone.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it really works. A telephone can be a tyrant. Let your answering device take messages, and turn off the ringer.


3. Shut off your computer.

Like the ringing phone, a humming computer begs for attention. Power down. Your email and unfinished work will still be there when you’re ready to return.


4. Let the television set know who’s the boss.

You may find that an hour without it leaves you more refreshed and relaxed than if you let a program, the news or a movie suck you in.
5. No news is good news.

Many of us feel the day hasn’t really started until we’ve read the paper or checked the headline stories on television or radio.
But only in recent times have we come to expect to know everything about world events as soon as they occur. And it’s almost always bad news, which is depressing. So give yourself a break by forgoing the news media for a full day.


6. Walk in the park.

There’s a park or public open space within easy reach of where most people live. The difference in noise level compared to the surrounding streets can be astonishing—and calming.


7. Drive in a quiet car.

Driving is stressful enough. Lower the tension by turning off the radio, tape/CD player and mobile phone.
Roll up windows to shut out road noise. You can even remain quiet with passengers, provided you agree to the silence.


8. Commune with your food.

Most of us don’t pay much attention to the food we eat. We’re too busy talking, reading, watching TV or working. Cut distractions and let yourself taste, smell and savour your food. Enjoying a meal can instantly comfort and relax you.


9. Reserve the bath or shower.

Make an announcement, “I am disappearing into the bathroom for half an hour. Please do not disturb me!” Warm water becomes an instant retreat.


10. Get up early.

The world at dawn is special—often the day’s most tranquil hour.



With just a bit of relaxation built into your day, you can come back to the world a happier, healthier person, ready to take on any new challenges that come your way.


source: http://www.signsofthetimes.com.au/archives/2004/june/0604article8.shtm