In my previous article on stress reduction techniques, I discussed how stress affects the body and some basic methods to assist you in lowering the effects of stress. In this article we will discuss more advanced techniques to continue your stress reduction.
The mind is very powerful and can have a wonderful effect on relaxation. This means using the imagination to induce relaxation.

First do some abdominal breathing for five minutes or so to wind down.

I would like you to imagine that you are lying on a comfortable lounge chair in your a beautiful backyard garden. Take a couple of deep breaths and feel the sunshine beating down on your body.

Become aware of all the sounds of the outdoors — the singing birds, the leaves rustling in the soft breeze, the lawnmower in the distance, a barking dog.

Notice all the color in your surroundings — the blue sky, the white clouds, the brown trees, the green grass, the blue water of a swimming pool, the colorful flowers, etc.

Take in any smells that may be around you such as scents of flowers or pine trees, herbs, cedar hedges and the fresh warm air.

If other thoughts creep in, acknowledge them however quickly return to focusing the beautiful senses you are imagining.

Enjoy what you take in. Become one with nature.

Close your eyes and continue to lie comfortably in your very comfortable chair. Sink deeply into the chair supporting your now very relaxed and heavy body. Sink deeper and deeper into relaxation.

Imagine a bright light from the sky shining down and enveloping your whole body with energy and warmth. This is your guardian angel shining down with her broad halo and life force for you to absorb.

Succumb to her completely. Become one with her and the universe.

Your angel is communicating with you, telling you how much she loves you and how she is all protecting of you. You feel her energy and vibration. A deep sense of peace and harmony come over you. You are completely relaxed in a way you have not felt before. This angel wants to share something personal with you. She wants to answer a question you have had resounding in your mind for the last couple of days. She knows your heart and fills it with knowing. You feel she understands you like no one has before. Open up your heart to her as she is very wise and can lead where you have not been before. Take a minute or two to absorb her message. Let her powerful white light cleanse your soul.

Thank her for what she has just given you. As her bright light starts to pull further and further away, until you see only a faint white light in the distance, begin to come back slowly by opening your eyes. Again notice the sounds in your surroundings, the colors of the back yard and all the smells in the air.

Take a few deep breaths and wiggle your hands and feet around slightly to get the blood flowing. Feel the warm sun toasting your skin a lovely brown color. You should feel warm and relaxed, hopefully with not a care in the world.

Enjoy this feeling of rest and relaxation.

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• Stress Reduction Techniques Part 1