Does this Deep Relaxation Really Reduce Stress?
Deep Relaxation is a proven method to help decrease physical tension and other signs of stress. It also has been shown to decrease high blood pressure, reduce headaches and low back pain.
Although relaxation is a common word and sounds easy enough, Deep Relaxation exercises are more similar to mediation than to common ideas of relaxation. Think of Deep Relaxation as a skill that requires practice, just like playing the piano or learning to sew. As a beginner, do not expect relaxation skills to calm you down when you're very tense. Once you get good at Deep Relaxation you'll be able to use it in all sorts of situations.
To get ready, pick a comfortable place that is quiet and where your won't be disturbed. If you can, unplug your telephone and ask others to leave you alone for a few minutes. Make sure that you are warm enough and wearing comfortable clothes. The relaxation exercise can be done in a chair or a recliner, on the floor or on a bed. If you use the floor or bed, put a large pillow under your knees so that your legs are slightly bent. Once you are comfortable and have given yourself time to settle down, click on the eExperience Deep Relaxation ( 6 or 20 minutes on the main page.) Proceed as directed; don't force yourself or your mind to relax quickly.
Most people have occasional distracting thoughts and find their mind wandering from time to time. Don't let this worry or frustrate you. It is quite natural and will become less of a problem over time. If your mind does wander, bring it back gently and continue with the relaxation exercise. When you have completed the exercise, allow your awareness to return gradually to your surroundings.
Deep Relaxation is a proven method to help decrease physical tension and other signs of stress. It also has been shown to decrease high blood pressure, reduce headaches and low back pain.
Although relaxation is a common word and sounds easy enough, Deep Relaxation exercises are more similar to mediation than to common ideas of relaxation. Think of Deep Relaxation as a skill that requires practice, just like playing the piano or learning to sew. As a beginner, do not expect relaxation skills to calm you down when you're very tense. Once you get good at Deep Relaxation you'll be able to use it in all sorts of situations.
To get ready, pick a comfortable place that is quiet and where your won't be disturbed. If you can, unplug your telephone and ask others to leave you alone for a few minutes. Make sure that you are warm enough and wearing comfortable clothes. The relaxation exercise can be done in a chair or a recliner, on the floor or on a bed. If you use the floor or bed, put a large pillow under your knees so that your legs are slightly bent. Once you are comfortable and have given yourself time to settle down, click on the eExperience Deep Relaxation ( 6 or 20 minutes on the main page.) Proceed as directed; don't force yourself or your mind to relax quickly.
Most people have occasional distracting thoughts and find their mind wandering from time to time. Don't let this worry or frustrate you. It is quite natural and will become less of a problem over time. If your mind does wander, bring it back gently and continue with the relaxation exercise. When you have completed the exercise, allow your awareness to return gradually to your surroundings.