Relaxation

Therapy Story: “Sometimes it feels like I can never relax.”

by Tom Giardini, MHC-LP

Relaxation can assume incredibly different forms for each of us. And while we all crave moments to unwind or take our mind off of other pressing responsibilities, it can be challenging to explicitly define what relaxation looks like, even when those rare pockets of free time emerge in our schedules. And while the prescriptive bubble bath, easy chair, or warm cup of tea may pop into our heads when we have a few hours to spare, they don’t necessarily foster the tranquility and presence that can always rejuvenate us. 

Without definition, relaxation has great potential to become another task on the to-do list - a task lacking a clear duration, location, and function. Taking time to identify feelings and activities that cater to our unique experiences of peace can bring us closer to mindfully, and hopefully enjoyably, recharging our batteries. It can also become easier to make time for your distinct flavor of relaxation when its characteristics are concrete.

Therapy provides a venue to piece together the elements of your story and allow for discoveries about what “kicking back” can look like for you.

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A Simple Self-Care Method

Last week, we highlighted how tough the transition into autumn can be. Whether you’re entering a new season or not, a main lesson to take away is that taking care of yourself is an essential, year-round practice. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

When you’re starting to feel overwhelmed or burnt out and need some self-care inspiration - FAST - a good place to start is with your immediate senses. Attuning to your body in the present moment is an excellent way to start feeling stronger and more centered.

Here’s a quick exercise that uses your five senses as a way to recharge:

The 5 Senses Exercise

  1. Sight -  What can you look at to relax you? A pretty view of nature outside your window? A funny TV show? Pictures of people you love or places you’ve visited?

  2. Smell - Can you smell any fragrances that help rejuvenate you? Incense? Candles? Clean laundry? Crunchy leaves on a path?

  3. Sound - What sounds put you in a better frame of mind? A favorite album? An audiobook? Silence?

  4. Touch - What touch-oriented sensations make you feel more centered? Your pet’s fur? Dirt in the garden? Cascading water from a hot shower?

  5. Taste - Is there a taste that comforts you? Peppermint gum? Hot cup of tea? Your favorite snack/meal/treat?


This brief technique is just one drop in a sea of self-care activities. There are endless ways to decompress.

How do you do self-care?

Leave us a comment - we’d love to know!