Top 10 ways to relax

Finding time to relax can be difficult. With work, family and hectic social lives, it can seem as though proper relaxation takes a back seat. Fortunately, there are many ways to make relaxation a part of your everyday life.

Relaxation tip 1: Try tryptophan
Many of us reach for food when we are stressed out, however this may be no bad thing as certain foods can actually help us to relax. Foods containing tryptophan, an essential amino acid, are great to stock up on when you need to calm down or unwind. The nutrient helps to raise serotonin levels which can elevate your mood, and melatonin, which can help induce sleep. Good tryptophan-rich foods include nuts, cheese, turkey, chicken and soybeans.

Relaxation tip 2: Get active
If you are feeling stressed out, one of the best things you can do is go for a run or hit the gym. Although you may feel more inclined to veg out in front of the TV to relax, exercise is great for releasing mood-boosting chemicals such as endorphins and anandamine, which can help to lower anxiety and increase mental wellbeing. As well as having a great effect on your mood and stress levels, exercise is also good for taking your mind off problems and helping to induce sleep.

Relaxation tip 3: Take deep breaths
If you are short on time, one of the quickest ways to relax is to take a few deep breaths. Anxiety can cause people to breathe more rapidly than normal and taking deep, slow breaths can be an effective aid to relaxation. If you are frequently feeling anxious or stressed, it can be helpful to implement deep breathing in to your regular routine by doing breathing exercises regularly or joining a yoga, Pilates or meditation class; all of which use deep breathing to promote relaxation and wellbeing.

Relaxation tip 4: Listen to music
Many of us are aware that listening to our favourite music puts us in a good mood, and studies have now found that music is also good for reducing stress. Various studies have indicated a strong link between music and lowered stress levels in everyday life, while research has also indicated that music can lower extreme levels of stress in people undergoing surgery, critically ill patients and pregnant women. Rather than seeking out "relaxing" genres of music, it is best to go with your individual taste and choose whatever type of music boosts your mood.

Relaxation tip 5: Stock up on chocolate
Good news for many is that chocolate - one of the world's most popular comfort foods - is also a great calming food. Chocolate is high in magnesium - which can help relaxation - and also contains anandamine, a neurotransmitter which can help you to experience a feeling of peace. With high levels of phenylethylamine, chocolate also raises endorphin levels, so all the more reason to unwind with your favourite chocolate treat.

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