1. Take a deep breath. Stress causes our breathing to become shallow and allows for less oxygen to be pumped into the body, which can reduce energy levels and mental clarity. Close your eyes and focus on the rhythm of your breathing. Breathe in for 3 counts (1-2-3) and hold the breath before slowly exhaling for 3 counts 1-2-3). Pause and count to 3 before inhaling again, and repeat. You should feel your abdomen expanding when you inhale, and emptying when you exhale.
2. Leave the tension behind. Sometimes, muscle tension can be difficult to consciously notice, but it is one of our bodies’ most common responses to stress. Choose a comfortable position, and gently close your eyes and slowly tense the mucsles of the face. Hold for a few seconds before slowly and gently relaxing the mucsles, letting go of the tension. Continue this with other muscle groups, and work your way down to your feet.
3. Meditate. Achieving peace of mind can be accomplished by the popular method of meditation. Choose a quiet spot, sit in a comfortable position and close your eyes. Relax your muscles from head to feet and become aware of the tension as you breathe in and let it go as out breathe out. Continue for 5-15 minutes.

More relaxation and meditation tips can be found through Dalhousie University’s EFAP resources. Click this link and search for “Dalhousie University” in the search bar for more information.