What is a good relaxation technique if you are upset or stressed?

Taking in deep, slow breaths is an effective relaxation technique when you are feeling upset or stressed because it activates the body’s natural relaxation response. Deep breathing helps to slow down your heart rate, lower blood pressure, and promote a sense of calm. By focusing on your breath, you can displace anxious thoughts and create a mindfulness practice that centers your mind and body.

This technique allows for greater oxygen flow into the lungs, which has physiological benefits that can help reduce feelings of anxiety. It is a simple and accessible method that can be practiced virtually anywhere, making it a practical choice for managing stress in the moment.

The other options, while they may provide moments of distraction or physical activity, do not directly foster a calm state of mind as effectively as deep breathing does. For instance, listening to loud music might increase energy or agitation rather than relaxation, whereas watching television could serve as a distraction without addressing the underlying stress. Going for a run can be beneficial for physical health and may help clear your mind, but it may not directly lead to relaxation in the same immediate way that focused breathing does.