The
Power of Relaxation
BY Dr.Handel Leslie
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Often
within our busy schedules and pressurized environments; there is a tendency to
believe that there is no time to really relax. Relaxation is more than a period
of time set aside where activities are suspended. In contrast, true relaxation
is having a mindset that is undisturbed by the agitations and stresses of life.
The idea of letting go is one of the major
decisions of any person. Many have the feeling that to let go and relax
jeopardizes issues at hand. Man was never created to constantly think about his
situations. There are basic human needs that can never be averted without a
consequence, one of such is the need to relax. This need is not one that is
imposed upon us but rather a divine requirement for spiritual, mental and
bodily refreshment. When the mind is still, then the body becomes rejuvenated
and energy is maximized.
Many fear that to be totally relaxed is like giving
the world the chance to move by without them. However, whether one chooses to
relax or not the world will continue its moves. To be controlled by a nervous
cycle continuously weakens the immune system. Having a mindset that is clear
and a life that is not rushed puts us in a place of inner peace and outer
tranquility even if our activities are varied. The need to look at life
differently is vital. In my own life, for years, I found it difficult to relax.
Having the attitude that life is like a drama, it became one of the most
difficult things to relax.
There was always something that needed to be done
and so the mind was always in a constant state of activity. I later learned
that life is to be lived to the maximum and priorities must be put in place.
When those priorities are in order, then eventually relaxing does not become
something imposed on you but a part of life. David understood inner struggles
and outer conflicts; with those struggles and conflicts he often discovered the
need for solace.
He gave us a practical advice in Psalm 37:7, “Be still
and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him;..” (AMP)
When you are overwhelmed by the challenges and struggles of life, it is wise to
take moments and relax your spirit, soul and body. The thought that God is in
control of whatever you face is a relaxing therapy.When our thoughts are
centered on God’s care, automatically the body responds and receives
rejuvenation.
Fretting about issues causes us to lose our focus and eventually
our peace. Knowing that God is in control should give you that sense of
relaxation. This is not suggestive that you do nothing about finding practical
solutions to your issues; but rather when you have done the necessary, then
relax and let God take over. Quiet times with God are necessary to build faith
and relax the mind. Such moments bring about refreshment and the rejuvenation
to face our activities confidently.
Know that there are healing benefits in
relaxation; for when the mind and spirit is at rest, the body is strengthened. Proverbs
14:30 says, “A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and
health of the body,…” (AMP) Make the decision to live a relaxed life.
Take daily periods to relax the mind and heart. By so doing, you will add years
to your life. Life must not be rushed. Take life in portions and within
proportion.
No matter how you seek to do everything in your lifetime, there
will still be things to be done after you are gone. Relax! James Matthew Barrie
said, “Those who bring sunshine to the life of others cannot keep it from
themselves.” It is time to let go and let the sunshine of life radiate through
you. Practice to relax and life will be lived from inside out; and your world
will be a better place
