The morning rush, a packed calendar, notifications that never stop. Most people today live at a constant working pace and treat stress as a normal part of the day – even though it really isn’t normal. The question of how to get rid of stress is therefore one of the most searched topics when it comes to health and mental wellbeing.

What happens in the body when we’re stressed

The body responds to stress by releasing cortisol, a hormone whose job is to get us into action during short-term threats. The problem arises when the body is exposed to stress over a long period – cortisol stays elevated, disrupts sleep, digestion, and immunity, and gradually wears down the psyche too. That’s exactly why it’s important to find a way to regularly lower its levels.

Relaxation isn’t a luxury, it’s necessary recovery

Relaxation is often seen as a reward we allow ourselves once we have spare time. In reality, it’s just as important a part of health as sleep or movement. The body needs regular signals that it’s safe and doesn’t need to stay constantly on alert – otherwise it remains under stress even where there’s no real reason for it.

Relaxation techniques that actually work

1. Breathing exercises – slowed breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system and calms the body quickly.
2. Movement outdoors – even a short walk can lower cortisol levels.
3. Massage – combines physical muscle release with the activation of hormones linked to calm and wellbeing.
4. Digital detox – even one phone-free hour a day can significantly reduce mental tension.
5. Sleep hygiene – regular, quality sleep is the foundation without which other techniques only work partially.

Why massage is one of the most effective forms of relaxation

Of all relaxation techniques, massage is among those that calm the body the fastest – it combines physical touch with deep muscle release, which together lower cortisol levels more significantly than passive rest. If you’re looking for a concrete way to switch off after a demanding week, it’s worth trying one of the relaxing massages built exactly for this.

Mental wellbeing as a long-term goal, not a one-off action

Mental wellbeing isn’t built in a single weekend off work, but through consistency. Just as stress accumulates day by day, managing it works best when it becomes part of a regular rhythm – not just a crisis solution when things pile up too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

| How quickly does relaxation lower stress levels?

Some techniques, like breathing exercises, work almost instantly. For long-term stress, though, consistency is needed.

| Is massage really effective against stress, or is it just a feeling?

The effect is measurable – massage has been shown to lower cortisol levels and support relaxation.

| How often should I relax to manage stress better?

Ideally regularly, even in small doses. Short but frequent relaxation works better than one long session once a month.

| Can chronic stress affect physical health?

Yes, long-term elevated cortisol is linked to problems with sleep, digestion, and immunity.

| Which relaxation technique is best to start with?

The easiest way to start is with breathing exercises or a short walk – both can be worked into your day without much preparation.