In the hit Australian comedy 'The Castle', patriarch Darryl heads to Bonny Doon to find his slice of serenity. But you don't need to clamber into the car and head to the outback to still your mind. Instead, why not try one of these effective natural therapies? You'll be saying, 'How's the serenity?' in no time!
Meditation
If you've ever tried meditation, you'll know how blissfully calming it can be. Even the practice of sitting in a quiet spot, lighting a candle (or three) and closing your eyes can help bring about much-needed serenity.
Our minds are often a flurry of thoughts, worries and ideas. Often it can be difficult to tune out and give our minds a break. Meditation involves focusing on one thought, one word or one object, which allows us to put all other thoughts on hold. The modality has also been shown to improve heart health and boost overall wellness.
Yoga
Like meditation, yoga can work wonders for securing serenity. As well as improving your core stability and physicality, yoga seeks to connect the breath and mind. Through asanas, you can find relaxation and greater awareness of your thoughts. In this way, yoga may help reduce anxiety and help you tap into a serene state more easily.
Massage
Is there anything more relaxing than lying on a cushioned table in a warm room, while a massage therapist molds your muscles and soothes any aches and pains? Massage therapy has been shown to improve mood, enhance circulation and bring the body's systems into harmony. Even if you aren't experiencing pain or illness, a half hour massage simply feels fabulous and will have you feeling floaty in no time.
Reflexology
Like massage, reflexology is a gentle therapy that could be just the ticket for those seeking serenity. Reflexology focuses on relaxing the body, to prime it for healing. It involves placing pressure on reflex points on the foot. These spots are linked to various body parts, and it's believed that stimulating such areas can bring about relief and relaxation.
These are just a few therapies that you may find helpful in reducing stress and providing relief and restoration. Why not give them a go and soak up the serenity?
Originally published on Jul 22, 2013
