If you keep your nose to the grindstone too long, eventually you'll have no nose. -Noah St John

Relaxation is very important for a Healthy Mind. The good news is that there are many ways to relax. Some of my suggestions are: spend time on hobbies, laugh (it relieves tension), gardening, going for a walk or some sort of sport, meditation, if you don't already have one then get a pet. Watching TV can be somewhat relaxing but you need to be careful what you are watching as there is a lot of negativity on TV. Watch a sitcom or rent a funny movie.

HOBBIES: Find something you really enjoy doing....knitting or other needlework, photography, reading (something light hearted is best), jigsaw puzzles, build a website...there are so many options out there. Just make sure it is something you really enjoy. Don't use excuses...give yourself permission to take the time. We all need downtime to rejuvenate our mind and body.

PETS: Many studies have shown that owning a pet reduces stress. Watching them play or better yet playing with them is a wonderful way to relax. There are also studies that show the healing powers for the body of petting a cat or dog. Personally, I am a cat lover and have two babies that I have had for 15 years. Dogs are good as they also get you out for walks and physical activity is important for a healthy mind and body.

GARDENING: Gardening isn't what everyone would call relaxing but I certainly find it so. I did some landscaping in my yard a couple years ago and thoroughly enjoyed designing the garden and now tending it. Getting out there and digging in the dirt and watching the plants grow is a thrill. I heard somewhere that gardening is good for soul as it connects you with the earth’s wisdom. It develops your ability to listen and sense and feel at peace within. I love seeing the flowers while I make my coffee in the morning or just lounging on the patio with a good book.

HUMOUR: Laughter is the best medicine. Yes I know we have all heard that line hundreds of times but there have been many studies that show the healing benefits of laughter for both the mind of body.

Something I read recently said that a laugh is more infectious than a cough, sniffle, or sneeze. So get out there and infect someone!

If you would like more information about on how to acheive a healthy mind, please see my website: http://lornasshop.com