Relaxation technique

A Relaxation technique (also known as Relaxation training) is any method, process, procedure, or activity that helps a person to relax; to attain a state of increased calmness; or otherwise reduce levels of anxiety, stress or tension. Relaxation techniques are often employed as one element of a wider stress management program and can decrease muscle tension, lower the blood pressure and slow heart and breath rates, among other health benefits. [http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?sec=health&res=9A0DE5D81E3AF930A25756C0A960948260# "Relaxation: surprising benefits detected"] by Daniel Goleman, "The New York Times," May 13, 1986, retrieved May 23, 2006.]

Background

Since the 1960s, research has indicated strong correlations between chronic stress and physical and emotional health. Meditation was among the first relaxation techniques shown to have a measurable effect on stress reduction. In the 1970s, self-help books teaching relaxation techniques began to appear on bestsellers lists. In 1975, "The Relaxation Response" by Harvard Medical School professor Herbert Benson, MD and Miriam Z. Klipper was published. Their book has been credited with popularizing meditation in the United States.] These include:
*Autogenic training
*Biofeedback
*Deep breathing
*Meditation
*Progressive Muscle Relaxation
*Pranayama
*Visualization

Movement-based relaxation methods incorporate Exercise such as walking, gardening, yoga, Tai chi, Qigong, and more. Some forms of bodywork are helpful in promoting a state of increased relaxation. Examples include massage, acupuncture, the Feldenkrais method, Reflexology and Self Regulation

Some relaxation methods can also be used during other activities, for example, Autosuggestion and Prayer. At least one study has suggested that listening to certain types of music, particularly New Age music and classical music, can increase feelings associated with relaxation, such as peacefulness and a sense of ease. [] Homeopathy has been used to support relaxation, and some find Humor to be helpful. In 2004, a group of mind-body and educational media experts came together to develop and implement a process to teach these techniques to the general public, a collaboration that was called Best of Stress Management.

References

ee also

*Biopsychosocial model