Instead of “doing” resolutions in the year 2013, I decided to choose a word to work on throughout the year. In fact, this is quite a phenomenon on the internet, check out this site – One Word, 365. My first thought was the word FOCUS, but after a few stressful days at work, I realized if I didn’t learn to RELAX – I wasn’t going to be able to do anything else.  Without relaxation, there is no productivity.

What does relax really mean? First of all, it is a verb, and mean to make or become less tense or anxious.  Or to rest and enjoy an activity to become less tired or anxious. Yes, without learning to relax, I am not going to be productive. I won’t feel rested and I won’t be open to new things. I will be STUCK with what is causing me stress – stressing me out! How am I going to do this?  I’m going to learn as I go. I have begun working through the book The Artist’s Way.  One of the most important things to do – and it is important to do it on a daily basis, is write “the morning pages”.  This is three pages in longhand upon getting up every morning. It isn’t easy! At least not for me – yet! But, it does empty your head out, empty your thoughts, you put them all on paper. I have done them before, but I’m starting 2013 committed to doing them!

One of the first things I did was made a sign to put in my studio, at my desk, and in my office.

Here is a list of things to do that I believe will help me relax.

• Breathe deeply
• Take a walk
• Yoga
• Stretch
• Practice meditation
• Journal
• Stop feeling guilty
• Spend time with a pet
• Listen to music
• Do something repetive – like brushing your hair
• Take a bath
• Read
• Count your blessing
• Smile
• Laugh
• Eat a banana – your potassium level is reduced during times of stress
• Relax your jaw
• Look at the clouds
• Go barefoot
• Organize

What do you do to relax?  I’d love some input!