Todays fitness tip is easy. RELAX! Thats it, that is the tip of the day. It is important to take time for yourself and make sure that you actually relax. Built up stress can make it hard to lose weight, and also has other harmful effects on your body. Too much stress can lead to high blood pressure, as well as throwing off your normal sleep patterns. Although exercise is an excellent way to decrease stress it is also important to have some time of relaxation.

There are many different ways you can relax, but incorporating even five minutes into your every day routine will result in many positive benefits for your health. Having quiet moments throughout your day will result in more mental clarity and the ability to focus for longer periods of time.

Practicing Deep Breathing exercises when waking up, such as those that are part of many Yoga regimens, are a great way to start your day in a place of calm. Another great time to practice relaxations techniques is right before bed. While lying in bed try to relax every part of your body to make sure there is not built up tension in your muscles. This will help to sleep better and deeper.

Waking up and going to bed are not the only times that your body could use relaxation. During the day stress accumulates, an easy way to stop it is to take even a ten minute break. If you find yourself becoming stressed during the day, whether at work or at home, try to take five to ten minutes for yourself away from others. Try to work in a quick walk- around the office, around the block, or even around your living room. Clear your head and do not include others in this special alone time. You will be surprised that you will feel more like working and be ready to tackle the challenges ahead.