Relaxation doesn't have to take up lots of your time. Just stepping away from something stressful for a few minutes or taking time away from your normal routines and thoughts can give you enough space and distance to feel calmer.
Read a book or a magazine, even if it's only for a few minutes.
Run yourself a bath, watch a film, play with a pet or try out a new recipe.
Try active relaxation
Relaxation doesn't have to mean sitting still. Gentle exercise can help you relax too.
Take a walk, going at your own pace. You might choose to go for a longer walk, but even a few minutes of walking can help you feel relaxed.
Look for a class you'd like to try, such as yoga, Pilates or gentle stretching.
Try some seated exercises, which you may be able to fit into your day more easily if you are busy. They may also help if you have mobility restrictions that make other exercise difficult. The NHS has a selection of sitting exercises you could try.
See our pages on physical activity and mental health for more tips.
Focus on your breathing
Learning to breathe more deeply can help you feel a lot calmer. It takes just a few minutes and can be done anywhere.
Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Try to keep your shoulders down and relaxed, and place your hand on your stomach – it should rise as you breathe in and fall as you breathe out.
Count as you breathe. Start by counting 'one, two, three, four' as you breathe in and 'one, two, three, four' as you breathe out. Try to work out what's comfortable for you.
You can find more details about this exercise on the NHS website.
Get creative
Getting in touch with your artistic side can help you feel more calm and relaxed.
Try painting, drawing, making crafts, playing a musical instrument, dancing, baking or sewing.
Try not to worry too much about the finished product. Just focus on enjoying yourself.
See our page on relaxation exercises for more ideas on how to use creative activities to relax.
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, taking time to notice any trees, flowers, plants and animals you see on the way. See our page on relaxation exercises for a guided mindful moment in nature.
Spend some time taking part in conservation, whether that's digging in your own garden or taking part in a local green project. You can find projects and outdoor activities to suit whatever level of mobility you have. See our pages on nature and mental health for more information about how to find projects in your area. If you live in an area where it is difficult to access nature and green spaces, our page on overcoming barriers may help.
Picture yourself somewhere serene
Even if you can't physically get away, your imagination can transport you to somewhere you feel calm.
Think of somewhere relaxing and peaceful. You might choose a memory of somewhere you've been, or a place you have imagined.
Listen to music
Music can relax you, connect you to your emotions and distract you from worrying thoughts.
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.
Do a tech check
Try turning your phone off for an hour, if you can.
Step away from the TV, 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 above.
Further support
Making space in your life for relaxation is only one part of managing your mental health.
If you're finding things very hard right now and the tips on this page don't feel possible, it is ok to ask for help. See our pages on seeking help for a mental health problem for guidance on talking to your doctor about options for support and treatment.
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