by Melinda Clayton

Created on: March 01, 2008   Last Updated: February 04, 2009

From acupuncture to meditation, from dancing a jig to enjoying a pint, the various methods of relaxation experienced by people around the world are more similar than one might think.

Meditation is one of the oldest and most popular forms of relaxation therapy, and although its roots cannot be definitively traced, it is generally believed to have originated in Asia. Meditation involves intense mental discipline, with a goal of transcending one's current level of consciousness and experiencing an altered state of consciousness. Our current practices of aroma therapy, guided visualization, and deep muscle relaxation all have roots in the practice of meditation.

The citizens of Africa have expanded the practice of meditation to include rhythmic chants or drumbeats, body movements, and dance. This appreciation of rhythm and sound has led many African communities to participate in the practice of community dances. These dances give residents a chance to relax and socialize with family, friends and neighbors.

The siesta, or afternoon nap, is a form of relaxation practiced by many different countries on many different continents. The citizens of many South American, Asian, and African countries take a few moments in the afternoon to rest and relax, often napping for a short period of time. Although this form of relaxation is not as popular in North America, some companies have experimented with the idea of giving employees a short break in the afternoon, with the idea that production will increase if employees are allowed a few minutes of relaxation to refresh and revitalize.

Our European friends have many methods for relaxing. This writer was lucky enough to spend some time living in Europe several years ago, and was enamored of the seemingly more relaxed culture of many European countries. Stopping at the local pub to have a drink and engage in camaraderie with the locals was a way of life in the small village in which this writer lived. Family time is valued, as is leisure activity. Fests, or celebrations, are common in many European towns, and involve a day full of fun, song, dance, and the occasional pint of beer. In addition to this, the typical European worker can expect to accrue between four and eight weeks of vacation time per year.

Although the term "happy hour" originated in America, the practice is distinctly European in nature. Many American bars, clubs, and restaurants now offer a "happy hour" following the standard American work day. We can thank our European

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