In order for you to be more productive and for your mind to be at its top performance, you must allow yourself to take time out at least once every hour. It is vital to your health and well-being. It regenerates your energy level and allows you to think more clearly.

The above statement is a well-known fact. How often do you really do it?

Placing small reminders is the best way to practice the necessary time-out each hour. This technique is why I started Stress Release Reminders. I want to help others stay positive and focus on their health.

Most stress encountered during the day are meaningless moments not worthy of your time. If the stress does not bring you closer to your goals, then forget it, and move on.

Below is a list of activities to practice during your time-outs.

  • Deep Breathing exercise - Counting your breath and focusing on belly button breathing is a quick way to quiet your mind from the busy day. (belly button breathing indicates proper inhaling and exhaling when you can see your belly button rise and lower.)
  • Affirmation technique - Many psychologists recommend affirming "I am quiet" over and over to yourself. I have found the best way to achieve maximum benefit is to take a deep breath in while to myself, repeat "I am," then exhale to myself "quiet." It will force you to focus on deep breathing and allow the proper oxygen in to think more clearly.
  • Self message - Tension can be harmful to both your cardiovascular and skeletal system. The neck, face, and hands are quickly accessible and achieve great benefits of lowering stress. Closing your eyes to focus better on the benefit will help to achieve a proper time-out.
  • Stretch -  The key to a successful stretch is to breathe through the entire stretch. Do not strain or bounce the muscle. While holding your stretch, take a deep breath, on the exhale, feel your body stretch a little more. 15 seconds is the minimal time for a proper stretch, but try to hold longer.
  • Reflection - Writing is a great way to slow down your mind. The Stress Release Reminders journal technique is a wonderful way to journal, specially with the busy lifestyle we all seem to think we have. Each page repeats an insert area for your daily goal, daily affirmation, and a few lines to write your favorite moments. It allows you to easily go back and view your past accomplishments.

Finding inspiration can be an easy task when you know where to look. Stress Release Reminders posts once a day motivational quotes, images, challenges, or links onFacebook which will also remind you to take the necessary "Me Time" and it's all FREE.