Last week we went over Abdominal Counting Breathing. This week, let’s take a look at Progressive Relaxation. This is another way to relax the body and is helpful to do with a CD. One that I found worked well is by Eli Bay (elibay.com).
This type of breathing is easier to do in your home, but could also work at the office once you get the hang of it. The benefit of this exercise is that is reduces your heart rate, blood pressure, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, depression and fatigue – just to name a few. It is also often recommended as an alternative to an anxiety pill.

You will want to wear loose clothing and make sure you are lying down in a quiet area (or if at work, sitting in a comfortable chair). Start with you hands: First, clench your fists and tighten. Hold this for 5-7 seconds, notice the tension and then relax it completely. Then move to your elbow and do the same, bend your elbow, tighten and then release. Next, move up to your shoulders: Pull them up to your ears, hold and release. You can continue this with every part of your body. The focus on the body helps you to concentrate. For further information about this or to book either a 30 minute stress consultation or life coaching session please email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Natalie Shay is a National Stress Management Coach and Career Counsellor. She has experience working with hundreds of large Canadian Organizations. Natalie has helped her clients improve their life and learn how to be happy in their career by learning and implementing new stress coping skills.