- 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 widerstress 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 professorHerbert 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
*VisualizationMovement-based relaxation methods incorporate Exercise such as
walking ,gardening ,yoga ,Tai chi ,Qigong , and more. Some forms ofbodywork are helpful in promoting a state of increased relaxation. Examples includemassage ,acupuncture ,the Feldenkrais method ,Reflexology andSelf Regulation Some relaxation methods can also be used during other activities, for example,
Autosuggestion andPrayer . At least one study has suggested that listening to certain types of music, particularlyNew Age music andclassical 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 calledBest of Stress Management .References
ee also
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Biopsychosocial model
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