Thursday, April 30, 2009

Relaxation and stress

Relaxation methods help us to deal with many kinds of stress. Since we respond to stress in a different way, we need to find our own way to relax. Stress create tension, arousal and distress, relaxation involves just the opposite, reducing tension, arousal and distress.

Relaxation involves
-increase awareness of muscle tension
-ability to control that tension
-control autonomic activity such as breathing, heart rate etc..
-ability to control cognitive activity


Relaxation training – An overview

1. Progressive or deep muscle relaxation
Helps you to let go of unnecessary muscle tension
2. Stretching or yoga
Helps your body to become more flexible and relax
3. Breathing exercises
Helps to quiet your mind and relax your body
4. Autogenic training
Focus on suggestion or image that may directed towards relaxation
5. Guided imagery
Entertain a fantasy may evokes positive feelings and relaxation
6. Meditation and mindfulness
With certain type of awareness, we fully attend our thoughts, feelings without judgment
All the above methods are very effective and require training
7. Other common methods – may not require training
Sleeping – perhaps the simplest and natural way to relax you
Having sex – refresh you
Listen to music, songs etc..
Reading, watching T.V, go for a walk
Talk to someone, socialization
Take a warm bath or shower etc..
Enjoy nature


Negative way of relaxation

You may think the following methods relaxing you but it creates opposite of relaxation and has their own negative consequences. Be aware of it!
-Smoking
-Alcohol, drugs etc
-Pornography, engage in sexual talk etc..
-coffee or some of the soft drinks


Relaxation techniques will be effective if

-Taught by trained professionals
-suitable to your needs and capability
-when practice become our part of everyday routine

Now find out your suitable method and relax yourself!