MAK-AIRS

 National Relaxation Day – August 15, 2021

 As I was looking for topics for this month’s blog I discovered that August 15^th is considered “National Relaxation Day”.  I was surprised this was an actual “Day”; however, I agree that it is important that we recognize a day, or more, to relax.  The timing of “Relaxation Day” seems appropriate to me as Summer is winding down and school activities are starting again.  As the parent of a High School student, I expect little to no relaxation time for several months. 

In the Cambridge Dictionary, relaxation is defined as “a pleasant activity that makes you become calm and less worried”.  There are many techniques for relaxing including, but not limited to, progressive muscle relaxation (tensing then relaxing each muscle group), visualization (forming mental images of a calming place), deep breathing, massage, yoga, music or art therapy, and mediation.  The key is to find the technique that works for you.  Some techniques may seem awkward the first time you try them, but with practice it may become easier.  These techniques should not cause more stress, so if the technique is not working for you, try something different.

There have also been several studies showing the benefits of relaxation, to both physical and mental health.  Some physical benefits include slowing your heart rate, lowering blood pressure, reducing muscle tension, and reducing chronic pain.  Reducing anger or frustration, improving sleep quality, and improving concentration, mood, and even productivity are some mental benefits we can gain if we make relaxation part of our routine.

I am going to challenge myself to try some new relaxation techniques during the entire month of August and would like to challenge you to do the same… or at least relax on Sunday, August 15, 2021, National Relaxation Day!

By: Penny Humphrey

Try this fun word search!

NATIONAL RELAXATION DAY

AUGUST 15, 2021

 

bath                               chat                               color

fishing                            friends                           hike

imagery                         manicure                       massage

meditation                    music                            nature

paint                              read                               relax

stretching                      Tai Chi                           yoga