RELAXATION

Written By vijay sridharan

Relaxation is a state of calmness. It is being free of worry in the mind, and free of tension in the body. It is having a sense of openness to one’s outside environment and an ease within oneself. When we are feeling stressed, relaxation is the space we give ourselves to let go of that which is gripping us, opening us up to more spaciousness in our body, mind and heart. 

Inspiration for more relaxation

  • Listen to music or sounds you find soothing. (The Calm app has heavy rain, a campfire, a purring cat, and more.)

  • Whenever you remember, deepen and slow your breathing. Focus on your exhales as a way of letting go.

  • Drink a warm, non-caffeinated beverage. Even just a glass of warm water can calm the body.

  • Practice gentle, mindful movement. (If you’re able to move while seated, the Calm Body Afternoon Reset can help clear your mind and ease body tension.)

  • Schedule time in-between activities to have more spaciousness in your day and to give your nervous system an opportunity to settle.

Self-reflection

What area of my life is asking for more rest?

““The most important thing to do is not to worry. The lines on your face will never stop the sun from coming up. Your tears cannot affect the weather.””
— Yrsa Daley-Ward
 
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About Calm Cards 
About Calm Cards 

We created these cards as a way to intentionally cultivate the qualities that support us in showing up for ourselves and others, in ways that feel nourishing and meaningful. 

We encourage you to engage with the Calm Cards in whatever way feels best. Here are a few ways that we love to use them:

  • Pick a card in the morning to set an intention for the day

  • Pick a card on a Sunday to set an intention for the week

  • Pick a card on the first day of the month to set an intention for the month

  • Pick a card when you’re feeling stuck, to see what happens when you infuse more of that quality into your day

  • Pick a card when you’re struggling with another person to explore what qualities might bring more ease into your relationship

  • Pick a card and use it as journaling prompt

  • Pick a card and use it in your meditation practice

  • Pick a card to use with a partner or group — like a book club, but an intention club; connect daily or weekly or monthly and share your experiences

  • Send a card to a friend who may need some inspiration

Check out the entire collection of Calm Intentions here.

Pick another Calm Intentions card here.

We’ve also put all of the cards in a lovely booklet for you to use as a mindfulness tool, a journal full of inspiration for your practice. Download the Calm Intentions Journal here!


vijay sridharan
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RESILIENCE