Relaxation Tips from Mind - Relax Your Body

It's very normal to be feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried at the moment. Over the next few weeks we are going to be sharing some relaxation tips from the mental health charity 'Mind' which you can try out at home.

1. Relax your body

When you're stressed your muscles can become tight and tense. This exercise helps you notice tension in your body and relax your muscles.

What do I need?

You will need:

- somewhere comfortable to sit or lie down
- space where you won't be interrupted

What do I do?

Lie down or sit with your back straight and your feet on the floor. Close your eyes or focus on a spot in the distance.

Start by clenching your toes as much as you can for a few seconds then releasing them. Notice the difference between the two feelings.

Match this to your breathing. Tense your muscle as you take a deep breath in, and relax as you breathe out.

Move up your body to your thighs, your stomach and all the way to your shoulders and hands, clenching and relaxing each muscle in turn. Take time to notice any parts of your body that feel tense, tight or tired. You can repeat if you still feel tense.

Take a moment to relax, then slowly and gently begin to move. When you feel ready, you can stand up slowly.