Since the pandemic began, an increase in the number of people suffering from mental issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, overthinking, and so on, has been observed.

Even though the number of people suffering from mental health problems is on the rise, mental health awareness has also increased.

Following are some relaxation exercises and techniques that anyone can effortlessly perform at home to relieve stress and anxiety. They also help in calming and relaxing the mind and give more clarity to the thoughts.

1. Deep breathing exercise:

  • Sit or lie flat in a comfortable position with your back straight. Close your eyes and while keeping your shoulders relaxed and still, take a deep breath and inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your chest expand, then slowly exhale through your mouth.
  • As you inhale deeply, notice how your chest rises and falls with each breath.
  • Repeat this exercise five or ten more times.

2. Belly breathing exercise:

  • Make yourself comfortable by sitting or lying flat. Place one hand on your abdomen, the other on your thorax.
  • Allow your belly to push your hand out as you breathe deeply through your nose. Do not move your chest.
  • Exhale slowly through your mouth. Feel the hand on your abdomen go in, and then use it to expel all the air.
  • Repeat this three to ten times.

3. Mindfulness:

Mindfulness helps you to be aware of your current state and surroundings. This practice allows you to detach yourself from uncontrolled thoughts and focus on the present rather than being stuck in the past or preoccupied with worries about the future.

  • Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
  • Focus on your breathing and body movements.
  • Shift your awareness to your surroundings. Focus on your surroundings, on whatever you are feeling or hearing. You will see that slowly your anxiety will start to fade
  • Alternatively, touch a table top or any other object while closing your eyes and concentrating on the feeling it creates. Explore the surface of the table or object with your fingers, feeling the shape and texture of the table.