No matter how many times we think this job, or that relationship, or tidying up every element of our lives might bring relaxation... the answers of ease, calm and connection almost always lie within ourselves.

And the ability to relax into that space is always available to you, even if you only have a few minutes to get there.

These are three things you can do in five minutes (or less) to reset, rest and relax any time today.

1. Meditate
   All you need is a comfortable place to sit or lie down. A simple focus on your breath for 10 counts - or a basic loving kindness practice wishing ease for yourself - and maybe even the whole world - can do wonders to curb the day’s anxieties - and connect with a dose of joy to help you see the day through
    
2. Lay your head on a cushion or pillow
   Try imagining your head against something soft and pouring all your fears and anxieties into it. Let them melt away and carry on with your day a little lighter, a little freer and with a little more peace of mind.
    
3. Free your body, free your mind
   As we float through the day, we often associate - or solely believe - our thinking minds, and continuously disconnect from our bodies. In reality, our bodies often hold the key to true relaxation. Take a few minutes and tighten a specific muscle - and release. Do a quick body scan of this practice - you’ll refocus your tension and alleviate the natural physical constriction that gathers over the course of the day. If you’ve only got a minute, something as simple as pressing your thumb into the palm of your opposite hand - where our fight or flight energy is said to build - can do wonders to give your body and your mind a gentle and well-deserved release.

So whenever you feel like you’re heads under water - or your whole body is on fire - give the gift of five minutes to yourself. 

Set your timer, take 300 seconds and see what happens. 

You might not get enlightened just yet. But you’ll give yourself the best chance to live in the light, joy and peace you deserve.