Need to de-stress and find your happy place in a hurry? These quick five minute or less relaxation tips can get you there quicker.

• The simplicity of closing your eyes and taking a few nice, long, deep breaths cannot be underestimated. (Though, probably not a good idea to do while driving.) Count to ten if you like. Envision your happy place. Imagine your kids winning the Nobel Peace Prize. Whatever it takes to find a contented couple of minutes. Go into the bathroom and lock the door for total solitude.
• Especially in winter, a nice cup of hot tea can bring on a bit of calm. Choose a blend that offers a soothing aroma such as Earl Grey or made of relaxing herbs such as chamomile. Tension Tamer does wonders to mellow a tense mood.
• A few drops of an essential oil dripped onto a warm, damp face cloth can add a little comfort to a busy day. Try eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender. Whatever suits your fancy.
• Take a hike. Or, rather, a walk. Preferably outside. If you can’t get away for a short walk, take a step outside anyway. The fresh air will do double time to relax and rejuvenate you. The solar power will feed your brain.
• Stand with your feet shoulder length apart and stretch your arms out sideways, then straight up to the sky. Make sure your fingers are spread out. Wiggle your fingers. Take a deep breath. Stretch your arms to the side again. Take a deep breath. Put arms forward. Bend at the waist. Touch the floor. Come back up to a standing position. Take another deep breath.
• The yoga child’s pose: Kneel and rest your bottom on your heels. Bend forward touching your forehead to the floor. Stretch your arms straight ahead of you. Bring your arms to your sides; palm upward. Inhale. exhale. Feel the quiet for a moment. Check out this nifty animation of child’s pose and other yoga positions at abc of yoga.
• Listen to your favorite song/music. Because music instantly enhances our moods, this is can become a simple and preferred way to improve mind and body experience .

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