RELAXATION RESTORES THE BODY AND MIND
Relaxing from time to time is important so that we have enough energy for studying, working, and taking care of everyday life. Relaxation reduces stress and improves sleep, concentration, and productivity.
When we relax:
- The electromagnetic activity of the brain slows down.
- The functions of the autonomic nervous system are balanced.
- Endorphins, the body’s own pleasure hormone, are released into the body, which makes you feel good and also relieves pain.
As you relax, the electrical activity in your brain changes and both hemispheres of the brain come into efficient use at the same time. This is where the so-called brain hemisphere shift takes place. This is a shift from the dominant influence of the conscious and logical left hemisphere to the right hemisphere, which is the area of unconscious, non-conscious, creative, and intuitive brain activity.
RELAXATION MAKES EVERYDAY LIFE EASIER
To relax, you need good conditions, a positive attitude, and motivation. You can just enjoy the relaxed state or use it for a goal-oriented practice. The benefits of relaxation are many.
Relaxation, among other things:
- helps calm the mind and body
- facilitates stress management
- improves self-confidence
- increases creativity and helps with problem-solving
- increases one’s ability to learn and concentrate
- speeds up physical recovery
- enhances imagery training
- supports understanding yourself
- facilitates the recognition and expression of emotions
- helps to gather strength
- improves sleep
- can reduce psychosomatic symptoms
Before relaxing, you can think about something you want to focus on in your relaxed state, such as giving a presentation. Once you have reached a relaxed state, imagine yourself as the presenter and go through the steps of the presentation so that giving it feels relaxed and natural. After you have gone over the exercise a few times, you will have a real-life memory of a natural performance and a smooth presentation.
For best results, focus on one or two things at a time while relaxing. You can do mental imagery exercises while relaxed.
There are many ways to relax – there’s something for everyone. Set aside time to relax every day.
TIPS FOR RELAXATION
A pleasurable hobby that gives you the chance to develop; it’s motivating to see your personal progress, and you will get the chance to focus on non-stressful things.
Finding a counterbalance to your everyday responsibilities.
Do lots of things other than studying: if you read a lot for your studies, do something completely different in your spare time.
Don’t postpone decisions; too much thinking will weigh on your mind.
Locate causes of stress: whether there are heavy things/people in your life, whether you take things too seriously.
Exercise can help – especially yoga!
Tips from students/2015
FIND A RELAXATION EXERCISE THAT SUITS YOU
Relaxing can be practised, just like any other skill. If you practice relaxation for 20 to 30 minutes every day, you’ll probably feel more relaxed all the time after a few weeks.
A wide range of instructions for different relaxation exercises is available online. The most common relaxation methods are:
- respiratory relaxation
- muscle relaxation
- imagery training or visualization
- practising conscious presence
- mindfulness exercises
It’s worth looking at the different exercises. Find the ones that suit you best and use them in your everyday life!