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Relaxation Techniques Increase Well-Being
Relaxation is more than a state of mind; it physically changes the way your body functions. When your body is relaxed breathing slows, blood pressure and oxygen consumption decrease, and some people report an increased sense of well-being. This is called the "relaxation response."
Being able to produce the relaxation response using relaxation techniques may counteract the effects of long-term stress, which may contribute to or worsen a range of health problems including depression, digestive disorders, headaches, high blood pressure, and insomnia.
Relaxation techniques often combine breathing and focused attention on pleasing thoughts and images to calm the mind and the body. Most methods require only brief instruction from a book or experienced practitioner before they can be done without assistance. These techniques may be most effective when practiced regularly and combined with good nutrition, regular exercise, and a strong social support system.
Try it!
- Relaxation technique 1, led by a male relaxation expert who takes you through a 13-minute, full-body relaxation exercise.
- Relaxation technique 2, led by a female relaxation expert who takes you through nearly nine minutes of breathing and muscular exercises.
