In such a busy life, it’s always good to take the time to relax for a few minutes, here we show you what they do in other parts of the world to have peace.
Traveling around the world to relax without having to leave the country? Yes it’s possible, and especially because we need it and we urgently need it!
We sometimes believe that there is only yoga and meditation. However, in other distant lands, there are other tools, all super simple, to find well-being and a moment of peace. Many of these relaxation practices are thousands of years old, others are more recent, but they all contribute to a better quality of life.
So if a moment of relaxation is what you crave most, take inspiration from these seven ideas we’ve collected for you from around the world. Enjoy and relax!
India: Laughter Yoga
It’s not yoga, nor laughter therapy: it’s yogartherapy! Well, it’s not called that, but “laughter yoga”, and it’s a relaxation practice created by Indian doctor Madan Kataria in 1995, based on a combination of breathing exercises and forced laughter, so to speak.
The benefits: total relaxation, strengthening our immune system, better oxygenation of our body and brain and yes, feeling happier. To learn more about this practice, click here.
Japan: Shinrin Yoku
Shinrin Yoku means “bath in the forest” and it is just a proposal that the Japanese made in the 80s. The idea is that of a preventive medicine, where a walk in the nature and near the trees helps us to relax completely; it also fills us with energy and allows us to live fully.
Doing it once a week has great benefits, not only to relax, but also to leave feelings like anxiety.
Russia: Banya or Sauna
The Banya is a Russian sauna, also known as a steam bath. The custom is to enter a wooden room heated with firewood and sometimes herbs that invite us by their scents to leave the problems outside. Afterwards, it is necessary to take a dip in cold water.
This is a relaxation practice that is often done with friends and has multiple benefits, such as releasing toxins, unblocking arteries and strengthening the immune system. Plus, it’s a great way to unwind.
Norway: Friluftsliv
Friluftsliv translates to “outdoor living”. In Norway – one of the countries with the highest quality of life, by the way – this term is used to identify our relationship with nature. It is very similar to Shinrin Yoku, except that in this relaxation practice we add beaches, campgrounds, mountains and anything that makes us see how amazing it is to breathe fresh air and away from urban chaos.
Due to the pandemic, this is one of the most user-friendly practices for all, since we can take our bike and go to one of the greenest areas of the city or even look for a campsite.
Japan: Inemuri or Power Naps
Yes, we know it. Another Japanese practice. But it’s worth picking up, especially now that many of us have the opportunity to do home office.
In Japan, people have a habit of closing their eyes to rest for a moment, wherever they are, from public transportation to coffee shops. Although you don’t fall asleep, they define this practice as “daydreaming”.
You can do this yourself by taking a moment to close your eyes and give yourself a moment of relaxation. We recommend that you set the alarm clock!
Sweden: Fika
The most delicious formula in this list of global techniques to promote relaxation: a cup of coffee with a cupcake, in silence, in front of you. Sounds more Mexican than you’d think, right?
The fika is a coffee break usually taken in Sweden. But its purpose is to slow down, enjoy the here and now and let the smell of coffee carry you through, always accompanied by a sweet tooth, like cookies or a slice of cake.
Doing this, in the middle of the afternoon or before starting the day, can mean the difference between living in stress or knowing that everything will be okay.
Nigeria: Ubuntu
Ubuntu is an African word that means “many.” The premise: a lifestyle in which you recognize the importance of others. It means that you are aware that your family and community depend on you to get ahead, and that you depend on them too!
Ubundo is about sharing, listening and empathy, kindness and love; so before judging others, it invites us to be quiet, accepting and flowing. A very wokii style.
You have probably already practiced several of these relaxation practices from around the world without knowing it. And if not, which one would you consider practicing? They are so simple that they can be all at once!
