Increasing relaxation by practicing certain techniques should be an integral part of everyone's life. Unfortunately in our society, many people are drawn to habits that they think are good for them, like having a drink to “take the edge off” or smoking because “the nicotine helps me relax”. But so many of us discount the amazing effects that healthy exercise has on our body's ability to reduce stress and enjoy more real relaxation.

Do you want to know a little known secret that you don't often hear when the discussion of exercising comes up? It is that regular exercise is nature's natural tranquilizer. This is a basic truth which is often forgotten in our age of mechanical wonders. We have cozy cars, fast moving escalators, automatic door openers, snow blower machines, dishwashers, garbage disposals, ovens that self turn-off, and such a variety of other delightful labor-saving devices that we hardly have to exert ourselves at all. Of course this can be pleasant in many respects, but it can also encourage physical laziness, and that is no good at all for our stress problems.

Studies have reported that when men and women (including children) exercise regularly, they feel better, sleep more soundly, handle problems better, and are better able to cope with life. Working out on a continuous basis is good for the body, and this in turn can reduce anxiety and inoculate us so that we can better handle future stresses.

For people who enjoy sports, such activities as handball, swimming, golf, or tennis can be good stress-reducers provided the activities is done in a regular basis, and without over exerting yourself. If you are into these sports and play often but in a such a way that there is extreme physical demands on your body, then this can lead to other stresses that may come into play. For other people, daily jogging or a brisk walk can keep us from getting too flabby or tense. Even stretching or have a muscle massage can be very helpful, although these should not be used as a substitute for exercise done on a regular basis.

You can exercise to music or listen to the news during your workout. Or better yet, listen to self development and positive thinking material that is both inspiring and makes you feel good. Of course, do not listen to anything that makes you feel negative, like bad news on the radio or music that makes you more tense. It would be better to relax with some sound that is less realistic but more relaxing.


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