From political drama, the recent COVID pandemic, rapidly changing technology and norms, and more, there’s no doubt that these modern times can be stressful. For older adults who may have more difficulty navigating news stories and technology like video chatting, the impact can be even worse.
Living with chronic stress will negatively affect your health no matter what your age is. It contributes to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, weight gain, memory issues, digestion problems, and more. Fortunately, that’s where active relaxation comes in. It plays an important role in overcoming and managing stress.
Unlike passive forms of relaxation, such as meditation, reading, napping, or similar things, active relaxation requires activity or movement. Any activity that brings you a sense of peace and centeredness is considered to be an active relaxation method. They can help with everything from reducing blood pressure, to promoting better sleep and reducing levels of stress.
One of the most common forms of active relaxation is progressive muscle relaxation. This begins by getting comfortable and taking some deep, cleansing breaths. Try actively tensing one part of your body, then release the tension. It’s usually easiest to begin with one foot. Start by tensing the muscles of your right foot, and hold for a ten count, then let it relax. Repeat this with your left foot, then work your way up your body, muscle by muscle.
Other types of active relaxation include slow, low-impact exercises, such as yoga, pilates, or tai chi. You can also engage in any activity that doesn’t require much active effort or concentration, such as taking a slow nature walk, painting, knitting or crocheting, or petting an animal.