Learn to RELAX

A relaxed approach can add years to your life.

           Stress is usually caused by worry, due to work pressure, personality conflicts, or by worries such as money problems, or family problems. First you must recognise it exists before you can take steps to reduce it.  See if you can reorganise your life to reduce your stress levels.

          Moderation in all things is the key to overcoming stress.

          Five of the best ways to learn to relax

* Spend time planning and getting organised

          If it is possible, plan tomorrows tasks before you go home. Try to switch off when you leave work. Don’t carry on working from home.

          Plan relaxation times with family and friends. Enjoy music and enjoy good books. Whatever you enjoy doing most.

          Your scarcest resource is your time so ration it. Prioritise your more important tasks. Learn to say;  “No! Sorry I am too busy to do that task right now..” Learn the art of delegation – the key to success.

* Make decisions quickly

        Meet deadlines as soon as possible. As soon as you have the facts act.  The longer you procrastinate the harder a job becomes and the more you worry.

* Learn to relax

        If you are working on a computer for long periods or engaged in concentrated mental activities learn to take short breaks at regular intervals.

          To sleep well at night you need to be physically tired. After work exercise. Swimming and walking are good and cheap ways to relax. Remember the old saying; “Early to bed, early to rise makes a person, healthy, wealthy and wise.”

* Watch your health

          If you don’t look after your body no one else will. Be aware of what your body is telling you. Seek help if necessary. Have regular medical checks, and maintain good dental and eye care.

          Eat good wholesome foods and try to maintain a well balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Keep away from too many pills and restrict your intake of coffee and alcoholic drinks.

* Reward yourself

          When you have done a good job reward yourself. Take a holiday. Enjoy concerts, parties, books and music with friends. Take up a hobby, join a club, enjoy good friends. Try to socialise with people away from your work. Above all, work hard but have fun. Know when and how to switch off and relax and enjoy life.

Geoffrey Moss

“A bow too tensely strung is easily broken.”