Relaxation exercises are a kind and simple route to remembering that it is possible to change one’s own mood, even if just for a little while. As someone who has dealt with panic attacks and depression on and off since childhood, I’ve long envisioned my array of favorite relaxation techniques as a toolkit. I’m not an expert, but I did take that kindergarten lesson about sharing to heart, so I’d like to present a few options to you today.
To make my qualifications or lack thereof clear: I’m not a psychiatrist, psychologist, yoga teacher, or monk. I’m an author, comedian and actress, with an M.A. in Education from Teachers College at Columbia University, and a B.A. in Creative Writing from Warren Wilson College. I also speak about mental health awareness at colleges and companies. It’s incredibly rewarding, and I think I bring a lot of value to these organizations, but I’m always clear that mental health advocacy is not the same as the evidence-based work of clinical research and treatment.
When I was a high school teacher many years ago, I found that basic breathwork really helped some of my students to access their creativity with reduced stress and embarrassment. It made a lasting impression on me, and affects the way I work with one-on-one writing and editing clients to this day.
On my podcast, “Well, This Isn’t Normal,” I discuss stress relief with people from a variety of backgrounds and professions. I also sometimes take the listeners through guided breathwork and visualization experiences. The show is accessible through Apple Podcasts, Spotify Podcasts, and Stitcher, if you’re interested. A bare bones episode, “Return to this Moment,” focuses on rest and breathing exercises, but most have some component of these practices.
My aim is not to improve your productivity. That’s a trap. I do not seek to cure, fix, or heal any illness. I am allergic to snake oil salespersons. Science is real, medication is great when it’s the right fit, and you don’t get sick because of “negative energy,” although plenty of people will try to empty your pocket by guaranteeing you they can, for example, cure your cancer with the power of positive thinking. Positive thinking and prayer can be incredibly helpful. The law of attraction is garbage and The Secret is a pile of chicanery and white-centered bullshit.
