Daily Devotions for Busy People

by Lowell Lundstrom

FEBRUARY 9 - HOW TO RELAX

Have you been under a lot of stress lately? Has it been hard for you to sleep at night? If you haven't been getting your rest, here are some helpful tips on how to relax.

I believe the art of relaxing is a three-fold experience: physically, mentally and spiritually. What I am about to say may sound amusing but in an effort to help you, let me share what works for me:

1. Physical Relaxation.

It helps me if I exercise until my body sweats. Jogging is a good way to get your body warmed up. If this is too strenuous for you, try walking briskly until you perspire. (Check with your doctor before you begin any exercise program.)

Then I eat a meal with a lot of potatoes and starchy food. Remember, sleeping pills are made from the ingredients found in starchy food, so when you eat things like potatoes and bread you're taking nature's sleeping pills.

Then I take a hot bath.

2. Mental Relaxation.

If I'm under stress, I need to get my mind off my problems and give my brain a rest. I crawl into bed, put on extra blankets and listen to something on the TV or radio that I'm not the least bit interested in (a sporting event or a lesson in basket weaving). This helps to block out thoughts of worry.

3. Spiritual Relaxation.

Finally, I read my Bible. I read the promises of God and then thank Him for them in prayer.

Soon sleep rolls over me in gentle waves and I take a short nap. When I awake, I'm relaxed and ready to fight the good fight of faith again.

Try these suggestions the next time stress overcomes you.

"Casting all your care upon him: for he careth for you" (1 Peter 5:7).

Also read: Ps. 23:2-4; Matt. 11:28-30; John 14:27

REMEMBER: YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO RELAX.

Devotions for yesterday Dry Times Work For Your Good!

Devotions for the day before yesterday Don't Waste Your Wishes

Scripture links by Blue Letter Bible