It can be hard to find time to relax. But if you can fit it into daily life, it can help if you feel stressed or worried. And it can allow you to refocus.

There are lots of different ways to relax. Try anything that feels right for you, when you can. If you can practise these techniques regularly, they often give more benefit.

 

Video: How to relax – 8 relaxation tips for your mental health

Watch our animation for 8 relaxation tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing.

 

Take a moment to relax

Relaxation doesn’t have to take up lots of time. It can help to step away from something stressful for a few minutes. Or take a moment away from your normal routines and thoughts.

Doing this can give you enough space and distance to feel calmer. For example, you could spend a few minutes reading a book or a magazine.

If you can take a longer break, you could watch a film, play with a pet or try out a new recipe, if these are possible for you.

Whatever you do to relax, try to find somewhere quiet and comfortable where you won’t be interrupted, if you can.

 

Try gentle physical activity

Relaxation doesn’t have to mean being still. Gentle physical activity can help you relax too.

  • If you can, you could take a walk, going at your own pace. You might choose to go for a longer walk. But even a few minutes of walking could help you feel relaxed.
  • Look for a class you’d like to try, such as yoga, pilates or gentle stretching.
  • Try some seated exercises. You may be able to fit these into your day more easily if you’re busy. Or you might prefer them if other types of exercise are more difficult or not possible. Visit the NHS page on sitting exercises to learn more.

See our pages on physical activity, exercise and mental health for more tips. There are also links to organisations that can help you to find a class or activity in your area.

 

Focus on your breathing

Learning to breathe more deeply can help you feel calmer.

You’ll get the most benefit if you regularly take time to focus on your breathing. But remember that you can do breathing exercises anywhere. And they only take a few minutes.

 

Get creative

Getting in touch with your creative side can help you feel more relaxed. You could try:

  • Painting or drawing
  • Making crafts
  • Playing a musical instrument
  • Dancing
  • Baking
  • Sewing

Try not to worry too much about the finished product. Just focus on enjoying yourself.

 

Spend time in nature

Spending time outside and in green spaces can be great for your physical and mental health.

Take a walk in a green space if you can. Take time to notice any trees, flowers, plants and animals you see on the way.

You could also take part in conservation. This could be digging in your own garden or getting involved in a local green project. You can find outdoor activities to suit your level of mobility.

Our pages on nature and mental health have information about how to find projects in your area.

 

Connect with your senses

Connecting with your 5 senses can ground you in the present moment. This can help if you’re starting to feel stressed, overwhelmed or panicked.

Try our exercise to notice what each of your senses is experiencing, and bring your mind into the present.

 

Picture yourself somewhere calm

Sometimes, you might find yourself in a stressful or difficult situation. But your imagination can transport you somewhere calm, even if you can’t physically get away. This could help you feel more relaxed.

 

Listen to music

Music can connect us to our emotions and distract us from worrying thoughts.

Listening to your favourite songs could help you relax. You could dance or sing along, or just close your eyes and enjoy.

Try to really listen to the music. Can you pick out different instruments? Can you hear a drum beat or a certain rhythm? Focus on the music, and let other thoughts fade away.

 

Take a screen break

Technology can be great for helping you feel connected. But if you’re using it a lot, it could make you feel more busy or stressed.

Taking a break can help you relax. Even if it’s only for a short time.

  • Try turning your phone off for an hour, if you can.
  • Step away from screens or have an evening where you don’t check emails or social networks. Use the time to do something relaxing. You could try some of the ideas on this page.
  • Turning your phone off while you do relaxation exercises will help to make sure you’re not disturbed.

Visit our page of tips to get a good online/offline balance for more ideas.

 

Find support for your mental health

Making space in your life for relaxation is only one part of managing your mental health.

We have information and tips that might help on:

If you’re finding things hard and the tips on this page don’t feel possible, it’s ok to ask for help.

Visit our pages on seeking help for a mental health problem for advice on getting mental health support.

 

Mental health apps

There are lots of wellbeing apps out there. Some could help you feel calmer, and help manage difficult symptoms.

But it’s hard to know which ones are worth trying. So we’ve created the Mind app library where you can find safe, trustworthy apps.

Explore mental health apps

 

For full article: Relaxation – Mind

Health, Mental Health, Support, Wellbeing
07th Apr 2025