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Relaxation
takes many forms and can be achieved in many ways. Relaxation techniques are an essential part of stress management, and include processes that can help decrease the wear and tear on the mind and body from daily life. Relaxation isn’t just enjoying a hobby or having a fun time, although these things are very beneficial. The body’s natural relaxation response is a powerful antidote to stress. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga and aromatherapy can help you activate the relaxation response in your body. If practiced on a regular basis, these activities lead to a reduction of stress in your everyday life and boost feelings of joy. They also serve to teach you how to remain calm and collected in the midst of life’s curveballs. Stress is all around. It can’t be avoided completely. We all recognize the stress involved in things like losing a job, the death of a loved one, divorce, money troubles. However, ’good” things such as starting a new job, getting married, having a baby and even moving into a new home cause bodily stress, as well. You may find yourself thinking “why do I feel so stressed when things are going good for me in my life?” Your body can’t tell the difference between “good” stress and “bad” stress. This is why it’s very important to learn relaxation techniques to counteract the negative effects of stress. By learning how to evoke the relaxation response, your body will benefit from a state of deep rest that is the polar opposite of the stress response.
Everyone can benefit from the relaxation techniques. Practicing relaxation techniques on a regular basis may reduce the following stress symptoms:
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
Health professionals such as complementary and alternative medicine practitioners, doctors and psychotherapists can teach various relaxation techniques. Or, you can also easily learn some relaxation techniques on your own. In general, relaxation techniques involve refocusing your attention to something calming and increasing awareness of your body. It doesn't matter which relaxation technique you choose. What matters is that you try to practice relaxation regularly to reap the benefits. Some common relaxation techniques include:
Aromatherapy
Meditation
Yoga
Tai chi
Listening to music
Exercise
Hypnosis
Massage
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