People deal with stress every single day. We may be fully aware of its presence or not but it is always there. That is precisely the reason why it is important for us to deal with this effectively through the different meditation techniques for stress. If we allow stress to get into the better part of our existence then our mind will soon be clogged up with negative thoughts and ideas that soon enough we might wear out. In order to avoid such situation, we should learn how to relax and take care of ourselves.

There are different ways on how to approach meditation . Allow us to share with you the basics which you can actually do every day.

BREATHING EXERCISES

Breathing exercises is best done during the early morning hours or during quiet, lazy afternoons or best in the evenings when everything is tranquil. Allow yourself to be in a comfortable position. As you sit, try to relax all your tensed muscles right on top of your head to your eyebrows and your lips. Breathe deeply. As you do this, continue relaxing your muscles in your neck down to your body until you reach your feet. Relax your arms and hands as well. Try to concentrate on positive thoughts. Inhale and exhale evenly for the next fifteen minutes or so.

MINDFULNESS

Every day we keep moving. We try to fill our minds with all the stuff we need to accomplish. There are so many goals in the future that need to be achieved. What about today? What about right NOW? Have we completely forgotten to appreciate that? This is what mindfulness is about. It allows you to focus on what is important right NOW in order for you not to miss the MOMENT. Time is fleeting. It can never come back. Practice mindfulness. It is one of the most powerful meditation techniques for stress.

GUIDED VISUAL IMAGERY

Known as creative visualization, guided visual imagery is being used to relieve stress and anxiety. It is one of the most relaxing meditation techniques for stress. When we imagine, no restrictions are made. We can imagine whatever we want. We could visit places as we travel through our mind. In guided imagery such imagination has a very essential role. This creative session allows the body to relax. It can relieve stress and anxiety. How is this done? There should be a facilitator to narrate a story or a creative script. Other ways to do this is to read, listen to an audiotape or video or have friend read the creative script to you. The use of descriptive language is important, this will relax you.

Before doing guided imagery or creative visualization, like breathing exercises you must:

• Be in a comfortable position.
• Be in a serene, tranquil surrounding free from distractions.
• Have loose clothing to facilitate relaxation.
• As you close your eyes, loosen up.
• Relax your mind and body.
• Concentrate so that the creative images will appear gradually as you imagine them.