Counsels on Wellness

Counsel #20 — Relax, Recharge, Repeat

Picture: Counsel #20 — Relax, Recharge, Repeat CWe 80.1

Busy schedules and demanding deadlines can, at times, cause us to forget the importance of relaxation. Even though priorities may not change, with a little intentionality, you can incorporate relaxation into your daily routine. CWe 80.2

Surprisingly enough, deep breathing exercises can be done in between tasks to promote calmness. The 4-7-8 method — inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 7, and then exhaling for 8 — only takes less than a minute to complete. If you work a 9-5 with only a 30-minute lunch break, take 5 minutes to stretch. In addition, every time you drive somewhere, you can listen to a sermon or other positive program to help you de-stress while on your way to your next location. Even having kids shouldn’t be an excuse! After they go to bed, engage in a hobby, read a favorite book, play sports, or take a warm bath, and allow your body to wind down from the day. There is always a way to find moments to pause from life’s stresses, even if those moments are short. By integrating relaxation into daily habits, even the busiest people can manage stress effectively.^[95] CWe 80.3

“The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14 NIV CWe 80.4

“In the name of Jesus, economize your powers, that after being refreshed with rest, you may do more and better work.” Ellen White in My Life Today , p. 133 CWe 80.5

Reflect: Is your schedule too busy to fit in moments of relaxation? If so, how can you change this? CWe 80.6