Relaxation technique

Relaxation technique is a method, process, procedure, or activity that helps a person to relax; to attain a state of increased calmness; or otherwise reduce levels of pain, anxiety, stress or anger. 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.

Types of Relaxation Techniques

There are several main types of relaxation techniques, including:

• Autogenic training
• Biofeedback
• Deep breathing
• Guided imagery
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Self-hypnosis
• Mindfulness meditation

Autogenic Training

Autogenic training is a relaxation technique developed by the German psychiatrist Johannes Heinrich Schultz and first published in 1932. The technique involves the daily practice of sessions that last around 15 minutes, usually in the morning, at lunch time, and in the evening.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is the process of gaining greater awareness of many physiological functions primarily using instruments that provide information on the activity of those same systems, with a goal of being able to manipulate them at will.

Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is the act of breathing deep into your lungs by flexing your diaphragm rather than breathing shallowly by flexing your rib muscles. This deep breathing is marked by expansion of the stomach (abdomen) rather than the chest when breathing.

Guided Imagery

Guided imagery is a mind-body technique that consists of healing words and hypnotic images, set to soothing music, to provide natural help with various health conditions.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique for learning to monitor and control the state of muscular tension. It was developed by American physician Edmund Jacobson in the early 1920s.

Self-Hypnosis

Self-hypnosis is a naturally occurring state of mind which can be defined as a heightened state of focused concentration.

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation involves the process of developing the skill of bringing one’s attention to whatever is happening in the present moment.

See Also

• Stress management
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Tai chi

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