Add a Brief Relaxation Pause to a Busy Day

A brief pause can make a wellness routine easier to repeat. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health describes relaxation approaches such as slow breathing, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation, while noting that evidence for specific health conditions is limited.

Keep the practice simple

• Choose a quiet two- or three-minute window.
• Focus on slow breathing or another comfortable technique.
• Use a timer or optional device reminder to make the pause consistent.

Relaxation techniques should not replace conventional care or delay a conversation with a health professional about a medical concern. Treat the pause as a general wellness habit, not a treatment.