Take it easy with NRG: The benefits of Relaxation
We’re getting serious about stress relief. When people talk about relaxation, it often seems like something that we aren’t always able to fit into our busy schedules. Here are some ways you can incorporate some relaxation into your everyday life.
Yoga
This popular practice combines postures with breathing exercises. Not only does yoga help to relax the mind, but it also improves your flexibility, muscle tone and balances the system within your mind. There are several mechanisms in yoga that influence stress levels, meaning there are multiple ways that yoga can minimize your stress levels.
Sauna
Not surprisingly, sauna bathers most frequently cite stress reduction as the number one benefits of sauna use. The heat in the sauna helps us to relax and regulates the level of cortisol (stress hormone) in our blood. Research has shown that a deeper, more relaxed sleep can result from sauna use.
Pool
Regular physical activity, including swimming, has been linked to lower psychological stress levels and improved mood. When done with correct technique, swimming strokes involve rhythmic breathing that can trigger parasympathetic nervous system – the part of our nervous system that’s responsible for rest and relaxation. Many people find the water pressure relaxing ‘’just like a hug’’.
Breathing
Learning to control breathing (through exercises like deep breathing) will help the body take in more oxygen, which helps to relieve anxiety, slow heart rate, and stabilize blood pressure. This is because when you breathe, deeply, it sends a message to your brain to calm down and relax.
Meditation
If stress has you anxious, tense, and worried, consider trying meditation. Spending even a few minutes in meditation can restore your calm and inner peace. Anyone can practice meditation. It’s simple and inexpensive, and it doesn’t require any special equipment. You can practice meditation wherever you are – whether you’re out for a walk, riding the bus, waiting for the doctor’s office or even in the middle of a difficult business meeting.
Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for recovering after exercise. Sleep helps the muscles recover from strenuous physical activity such as weightlifting or running. Sleep can also help productivity whether its for work/study/training. It can also help you control your weight. Getting a good amount of sleep helps balance your leptin and ghrelin hormone levels which control your appetite.
Yoga is available through our NRG Online App as well as in most of our clubs weekly.