Progressive Relaxation

Stressed out? Try progressive relaxation. This is a technique designed to reduce the muscle tension that accompanies stress. Lie down or sit with your feet shoulder-width apart, hands at your side or in your lap. Breathe in deeply and flex your toes for a count of three. Release and breathe out. Do the same for your calves, then your thighs, buttocks, stomach, chest, arms, shoulders, and neck. Move back down your body, repeatedly tense and release all of your major muscle groups as you breathe deeply.