Simple Relaxation Response Techniques for Stress Relief

The daily grind: it causes stress in us all, stress that can lead to emotional, even physical, health problems.

"Stress evokes what is called a fight or flight response. Preparing us to run, preparing us to fight."

But there may be a way to fight the harmful effects of stress. It's called "The Relaxation Response." developed by Dr. Herbert Benson, it draws on the traditions of eastern meditation.

""One gets up in the morning, sits for 10 to 20 minutes, keeping their eyes closed, and relaxing their muscles."

Once you're relaxed, breathe slowly and deeply. On each breath out, repeat a chosen phrase or word such as "peace", "love", or "calm" over and over again.

"After doing that for ten to fifteen minutes one should first sit quietly for about a minute keeping their eyes closed.

It's normal for extraneous thoughts to intrude during the meditation. Just let them pass, and return to the exercise.

Though the evidence is still coming in, the relaxation response, practiced daily, may help with problems such as high blood pressure, headaches, and anxiety. And give you a greater feeling of control over your health and well-being.

"When you invoke the 'relaxation response' regularly, there are actual changes in your brain and in your body which don't do away with the stress, but what it does is allow us to deal with it better."

This entry last modified on: January 11, 2012 12:07 PM