The body follows what the mind conceives. The condition of the mind often affects how the body performs, which explains why people who are stressed often suffer from accelerated aging and health problems. There are techniques that can help avoid or at least minimize stress. Follow these top 10 ways to relax and give your mind and body a good break.

1. Learn to breathe.

Breathing comes unconsciously, which sometimes encourages us to take it for granted. Several times a day, when you feel stress coming on or you feel tired and unenthusiastic, do a few deep breathing exercises. Here's how:

Sit or stand with your spine straight and stretched slightly. Then slowly take a breath at a slow count of 3 and exhale just as slowly. Allow your lungs to expand as you take in the air and empty it as you breathe out. If it helps to close your eyes, then do so. Fresh oxygen helps enliven your blood and the slow breathing encourages you to sit or stand still for a moment.

2. Stretch.

Another way to relax is slow stretching. Whether you're standing or seated, always keep your spine straight and allow both of your arms to dangle loosely at your side. Feet should be flat on the floor and relaxed.

Slowly raise your arms high, as if you're reaching for the ceiling and slowly raise yourself on the ball of your feet. Follow the movement of your hands with your eyes so that your head can tilt back. Hold this position for a count of 10 and then slowly bring down your arms.

3. Increase your physical activities.

Or at least get yourself one if you haven't got any up until now. Contrary to what other people think, exercising actually helps you relax afterwards. It cleanses your body of toxins by inducing sweat, increases your blood flow and the flow of oxygen to the brain and it works up your muscles.

Start slowly and gradually build up until you are able to maintain a regular schedule.

4. Watch your diet.

What you eat affects your mood. Another great way to relax is to maintain a diet that is rich in nutrients, such as antioxidants, folate and omega-3 fatty acids. Eat more fruits and vegetables and when you're thirsty, grab a bottle of water and keep away from sodas and flavored drinks.

5. Get enough sound sleep.

Sleep is about quality and not just quantity but in times of stress, it's best to get as much sleep as you can. About 6 to 8 hours should get you the rest you need.

Getting enough sleep is an excellent way to relax. It allows your body to regroup and recover and it eases your mind of other concerns.

6. Use music.

If music works for you, use it. Stick to soft tunes and don't whip out that Metallica CD just yet. Rock music tends to use heavy bass lines, hard percussions and strong lyrics. If you want to relax, turn to soft and easy listening and save those faster tunes for some other time.

7. Turn away from the modern trappings of your life.

Often, the most relaxing things are also the ones that are the most basic. Once a week at least or more often, turn off the TV. Unplug it and keep the remote outside of your reach. Turn off the computer as well.

These two are common sources of distractions. Due to the rapidly changing images and the overflow of information, they can sometimes overload the mind and hinder relaxation. Keep things simple and don't sweat the small, insignificant stuff.

8. Have time to yourself.

A good way to relax is to set aside time for some peace and quiet. What better way to do this than to schedule short vacations for yourself? You don't have to pack your bags or even leave the house - simply close the door, find a nice, quiet place to sit and enjoy your own company.

9. Try yoga or meditation.

Yoga and meditation helps you attain a good body and mind connection. As a result, you're more likely to feel relaxed and refreshed. Try simple yoga steps or learn to meditate a few minutes each day. Do these regularly and you'll find that it will get easier and easier to relax and manage stress when you really need to.

10. Laugh.

Find your sense of humor again. Be with family and friends you can be yourself with. Laughter is one of the best ways to relax and it doesn't have to cost a thing. It also helps you build connections with people in your life who really matter.

Copyright (c) 2008 Konstantin Koss