Relaxation: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to describe general activities or states that help you feel less stressed and more calm.

• Meditation is a great form of relaxation.
• She enjoys reading as a method of relaxation.

Describes a period of relief from work or physical activity to recover strength or energy.

• After a long day at work, he needed some rest.
• The doctor advised her to get plenty of rest.

Refers to activities done for enjoyment when one is not working. Often used in the context of physical activities.

• Hiking is a popular form of recreation in this area.
• They built a new recreation center in town.

Usually used informally to describe the process of becoming less tense, especially after work or stress.

• After a stressful week, she spent the evening unwinding with a good book.
• They went to the beach to unwind after the exams.

Used to describe free time activities pursued for enjoyment and pleasure rather than work.

• In her leisure, she loves to paint.
• They spent the weekend enjoying various leisure activities.

Use in situations where someone is taking a break from work or stress, typically to rest or unwind.

• After a long week at work, she enjoys a day of relaxation at the spa

Applicable when something is being made less tight or strict, often used in physical or regulatory contexts.

• The mechanic is loosening the bolts on the engine
• The government is loosening restrictions on travel

Appropriate when referring to reducing something gradually, such as easing tension, pain, or restrictions.

• The medication is excellent at easing her back pain

Suitable for situations where someone feels comfort or alleviation from something stressful, painful, or uncomfortable.

• He felt a huge sense of relief after hearing the good news
• The relief from the headache was immediate after taking the medication