Relaxation
Relaxation is not something that you do, it is a natural response that you allow to happen.
Relaxation is what is left when you realease tension.
The Relaxation Response: Why and How
The relaxation response is opposite to the body's stress response. Relaxation is one of the best natural remedies for anxiety. Here's how relaxation works to manage stress symptoms. When anxiety strikes, the body is exhibiting the stress response.
Stress response and anxiety symptoms.
When seeking ways to deal with stress and anxiety, consider the symptoms that are problematic:
headaches, insomnia, muscle stiffness, high blood pressure…. think about whatever symptoms you find troublesome.
Relaxation works as a stress and anxiety cure, because it induces the opposite of the fight-or-flight
response and as a result causes the opposite symptoms.
What is the Relaxation Response?
The relaxation response is the process of de-escalating the stress response and inducing relaxation.
It is the response of the body when relaxation techniques are used.
Some characteristics of the relaxation response:
- breathing becomes slow and deep, resulting in the necessary amount
of oxygen intake
- muscles become less tense
- a feeling of calm is experienced
- organ function, such as digestion, occurs normally
- the ability to think clearly is enhanced
- memory improves
- improved concentration
- feelings of confidence and calm rather than anxiety and fear
- increased mental clarity
- better sleep, more restful sleep, easier falling asleep
- increased productivity during the day
- stress hormones return to normal levels
- improved immune system (stress hormones interfere with immune
system function, while the relaxation response improves immunity)
Basically, the relaxation response induces calm, level, normal body functioning.
How to Induce the Relaxation Response
To effectively induce relaxation, there are various relaxation techniques
that can be used.For the most benefit, try out different relaxation techniques in full. But for quick
relief of stress or quick intervention in case of an anxiety attack, a few of the most effective
components of these techniques can be used as quick ways to trigger the relaxation response.
Quick Ways to Trigger the Relaxation Response:
- deep breathing
- consciously relax key muscles
- shake it out
- yawn and stretch
- block out stimulation
- use aromatherapy like a clary sage, lemon and lavender blend
So what have you tried??
yoga, meditation, breathing, walking, gardening, reading, a hot bath in lavender, aromatherapy in a diffuser,
Healing Hot Stone Treatments, a massage, reflexology, soft music, a hot cup of milk,??
These are all great ideas.
You just need to try a few and see what works for you!
If you only have a few minutes between meetings – then deep breathing will help.
If you have 15 minutes before dinner or after then perhaps a walk around the block is in order.
When you do, try deep breathing and looking around you to be mindful of the trees,
the sky, the stars, the clouds. Enjoy your time!
If you have a half an hour or an hour, a longer walk, gardening, reading, a massage or
reflexology or a Healing Hot Stone Treatment will do the trick!
No matter what you choose make sure you do it often and be responsible for your Wellness by taking good care of yourself.
Time to unwind, de-stress and relax is vital to your mental and physical well being!
Relaxation allows tension and cortisol to be released, causing less headaches and stomach problems, better mental clarity
and better decision making power!
Book an appointment with Janet to try a variety of relaxation techniques
that will work for you!
OR register to attend our Saturday morning Relaxation Sessions
705-875-8856 / getsmart0203@live.com
Relaxation Guaranteed!
