Relaxation techniques are an effective way to reduce stress, something we all experience, but for some, it begins to affect their ability to perform simple activities of daily living or reduces their ability to interact with the world around them. This can particularly be the case for those experiencing mental illness such as anxiety, depression or schizophrenia. Braga et al. (2005) state that those with increased anxiety levels also have a lower level of life satisfaction, something we would undoubtedly like to improve.
Relaxation techniques are not the only ways to relax, we often engage in activities which can induce relaxation for us, such as going for a walk or taking a hot bath. However, despite these being effective methods to relax us and calm us down, they are less likely to evoke the 'relaxation response' which is triggered by relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation (Alidina, 2012).
Our relaxation response is essentially the opposite of our stress response that prepares our body for 'fight or flight' when we are experiencing chronic stress. When our relaxation response is triggered, we can experience positive changes within the body and mind such as relaxed muscles, decreased blood pressure, slower breathing and less energy consumption along with increased ability to digest food and fight disease. We also feel very peaceful and at ease (Alidina, 2012).
It is virtually impossible for someone to consistently lead a balanced life and not experience stress, but we do have the control to address our stress when we feel it is getting too much, we can continue to use relaxation techniques to rebalance us.
The appreciation of these benefits appears to be increasing all the time, with relaxation techniques being used as intervention by occupational therapists in both acute and community settings.
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