Lesson 1, Topic 1
In Progress

Using Relaxation Techniques

November 20, 2021

Relaxation techniques are not just used to help you ‘feel better’; they actually play a major role in reducing the stress on your body and mind that comes from the experiences of everyday life.

According to the Mayo Clinic, relaxation techniques can reduce stress symptoms by:

  • Slowing your heart rate
  • Lowering blood pressure
  • Slowing your breathing rate
  • Increasing blood flow to major muscles
  • Reducing muscle tension and chronic pain
  • Improving concentration
  • Reducing anger and frustration
  • Boosting confidence to handle problems

There are several common types of relaxation techniques, with three of them being:

  1. Autogenic: This technique uses the senses to promote relaxation. For example, one may think about a peaceful place and then use relaxed breathing. Or they might repeat words in their mind to do away with muscle tension.
  2. Progressive muscle: In this technique, individuals purposely tense and then relax each muscle group.
  3. Visualization: With visualization, the individual imagines a calming place and tries to utilize his or her senses to feel like they are really at that place.