FWD: Weekend Wellness: Relax

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Weekend Wellness: Relax

Dr. Weil

If your weekly routine is wearing you down and winding you up, consider using imagery. It is a wonderful way to relax, reduce stress and work through those day-to-day challenges. This simple, low-tech and effective tool is free: all you need is your imagination and a few minutes to yourself. Begin by closing your eyes and taking deep, measured breaths. Imagine that you are in beautiful surroundings - either someplace you have visited or someplace you conjure up from your imagination. Focus on bringing all the elements of the scene to life: the colors you see, the sounds you hear, the smells you detect. Bring the images into focus and try to "stay in" the scene for at least five minutes. Practice this exercise for a few minutes every day or use whenever you're stressed.