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Relaxation technique

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For other forms of relaxation, see Relaxation.
Relaxation technique
ICD-9-CM94.33

A relaxation technique (also known as relaxation training) is any method, process, procedure, or activity that helps a person to relax; to attain a state of increased calmness; or otherwise reduce levels of pain, anxiety, stress or anger. Relaxation techniques are often employed as one element of a wider stress management program and can decrease muscle tension, lower the blood pressure and slow heart and breath rates, among other health benefits.[1]

Relaxation therapy, the application of relaxation technique, can be applied in various settings to complement treatment for stress, anxiety, depression, and pain. It addresses both psychological and physiological effects of stress such as increased heart rate, sweating, and muscle tension.[2] There are many variations of relaxation techniques, including progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training, guided imagery, biofeedback-assisted relaxation, and other techniques.[3][4][5][6]

Thus, relaxation technique are useful for either emotional pain caused by stress, anger, anxiety, and mood of depression, or chronic pain caused by strains, single side muscle use, awkward position, restriction of movement in certain areas of the spine, improper form during physical activity, and stressful posture.[7] Multiple relaxation techniques share a fundamental principle to decrease muscle tension and lower physical or mental pain.[7]

Relaxation techniques are generally safe for healthy individuals.[8] Occasional instances exist where individuals have reported negative experiences after receiving relaxation techniques.[9]

Background

Current and past researchers have explored the relationship between physical and mental disorders through various methods and investigated the effects of relaxation techniques. The subsequent literature review presents a brief and succinct overview of the latest research discoveries, providing a background for the understanding of relaxation techniques.

Claude Bernard, a scientist in 1865, observed that maintaining a constant internal environment, our internal milieu, when facing changes in external environment and condition is critical for life and well-being.[10]

Additionally, chronic stressors can have negative consequences, and they are especially prevalent in humans, potentially due to their high cognitive ability, which may cause ongoing stress responses to various adverse life and work circumstances.[11] The connection between psychosocial stressors and chronic illness is intricate and influenced by various factors, such as the type, quantity, and duration of stressors, along with an individual's biological susceptibility (like genetics and inherent characteristics) and their learned ways of coping.[11]

Previous studies have indicated that relaxation techniques, including but not limited to deep breathing, guided imagery, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation, are effective ways to reduce stress, indicating that relaxation techniques are effective in promoting relaxation both physically and psychologically.[12]

Research released in the 1980s indicated stronger ties between stress and health and showed benefits from a wider range of relaxation techniques than had been previously known. This research received national media attention, including a New York Times article in 1986.[13]

A more recent study found that participants who practiced progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and guided imagery experienced a statistically significant increase in relaxation compared to the control group.[14] While there was no significant difference in relaxation levels before training, all intervention groups demonstrated significantly higher levels of relaxation after training compared to the control group.[14] Additionally, there was a linear association between progressive muscle relaxation & guided imagery and physiological relaxation, while the deep breathing group initially showed increased physiological arousal before quickly returning to baseline levels.[14] These findings support existing research findings on the effectiveness of relaxation techniques, which can effectively enhance relaxation states both psychologically and physiologically.

Uses

People use relaxation techniques for the following reasons, among others:[medical citation needed]

Thus, relaxation techniques are used and designed to help individuals reduce tension and anxiety, both physically and psychologically, by inducing the body's "relaxation response," characterized by a slower respiratory rate, reduced blood pressure, and a slower heart rate.[15] The main techniques are progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training, guided imagery, and biofeedback-assisted relaxation.

Techniques

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR)

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is one of the most important and easy to learn relaxation techniques developed by Dr. Edmund Jacobson in the 1920s, setting the foundation for the development of relaxation techniques.[16] It involves the effective and repetitive relaxation of 14 different muscle groups and has been used to treat anxiety, tension headaches, migraines, TMJ, neck pain, insomnia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, backaches, high blood pressure, etc.[17] PMR is a two-step practice that involves creating tension in specific muscle groups and then releasing it to build awareness of the sensations of tension and deep relaxation.[18] It is recommended to repeat the process several times and to practice regularly to induce physical muscular relaxation at the first signs of stress.

After initial practice of PMR, several muscle groups may still require additional tensing and relaxation to achieve maximum effects. Decreasing degree of muscle tension is typically recommended by Dr. Edmund to “train” the body for immediate and continuous response.[17]

The following steps are recommended to perform effective PMR.[16]

  1. First, to practice PMR, find a comfortable place where you won't be disturbed for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Begin by focusing on each muscle group and tensing them for five seconds while breathing in, then releasing and relaxing the muscle while noticing the feeling of relaxation.
  3. Repeat this process for each muscle group while gradually reducing the amount of tension used to deepen the sense of relaxation.
  4. Transition to the next muscle group once you feel relaxed in the current one.
  5. It is recommended to start at one part of the body and move systematically, and to not hold your breath or tense muscles that cause discomfort.

PMR was found to be effective in reducing stress from a study on a random sample of nursing students.[19] PMR also demonstrates positive effect in diminishing anxiety, depression, and mental pain for patients having cancer or coronary heart disease.[20][21]

Guided imagery (GI)

Guided imagery (GI) is a well-established technique for reducing stress and anxiety. It involves replacing distressing memories with positive mental imagery through a process of sensory engagement and behavioral and physiological responses.[22] The technique is guided by an instructor or audio recording that directs participants to imagine a peaceful or pleasant setting, often involving rich sensory experiences such as sounds, smells, and visual details.[23]

By actively engaging the senses and focusing on specific contextual details, guided imagery enables individuals to generate vivid and realistic mental images that create a strong sense of presence and immersion in the imagined scenario, which helps to divert attention away from negative thoughts and feelings, and fosters a sense of relaxation and tranquility.[24] When used in combination with progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), the PMR-GI approach is a highly effective method for managing the symptoms of nausea and vomiting, as well as improving patients' overall mental well-being.[25]

Research has shown that guided imagery can have a significant impact on reducing stress and anxiety, and may also have benefits for managing chronic pain, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall well-being.[26] The method is easy to learn and can be practiced anywhere, making it a convenient and accessible tool for managing stress, promoting relaxation and improving self-forgiveness scores following several sessions of GI interventions.[27] Overall, guided imagery is a valuable technique for anyone looking to improve their mental and emotional health.

Nature based vs traditional GI

Studies have identified several connections between exposure to natural environments and health outcomes.[28][29] Specifically, there is compelling evidence linking nature exposure to enhancements in cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity, and sleep.[30] However, it may not always be feasible to alleviate anxiety symptoms by spending time in natural settings, depending on the situation and context.[31] Studies have demonstrated that incorporating nature-based GI interventions can overcome the barriers of limited access to natural environments and enhance the effectiveness of GI interventions.[31] Nature-based GI techniques have been shown to be highly effective in managing anxiety, while also offering the advantages of being affordable and highly accessible, providing a great alternative to traditional GI.[31]

Biofeedback is a technique that enables individuals to make subtle changes in their body, such as relaxation of muscles, which can help alleviate pain and decrease tension.[32] With the aid of an electronic device that provides feedback and real-time information on changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or muscle tension, individuals can learn to monitor their level of relaxation and recognize and regulate their body's response to stress.[32] Biofeedback-related relaxation technique is found by researchers to decrease test anxiety in nursing students, significantly reduce average blood glucose, A1C, muscle tension, and lower hypertension.[33][34][35]

Other techniques

Various techniques are used by individuals to improve their state of relaxation. Some of the methods are performed alone; some require the help of another person (often a trained professional); some involve movement, some focus on stillness; while other methods involve different elements.

Certain relaxation techniques known as "formal and passive relaxation exercises" are generally performed while sitting or lying quietly, with minimal movement and involve "a degree of withdrawal".[36] These include:

Movement-based relaxation methods incorporate exercise such as walking, gardening, yoga, T'ai chi, Qigong, and more. Some forms of bodywork are helpful in promoting a state of increased relaxation. Examples include massage, acupuncture, the Feldenkrais Method, myotherapy, reflexology and self-regulation.[medical citation needed]

Some relaxation methods can also be used during other activities, for example, autosuggestion and prayer. At least one study has suggested that listening to certain types of music, particularly new-age music and classical music, can increase feelings associated with relaxation, such as peacefulness and a sense of ease.[37]

A technique growing in popularity is flotation therapy, which is the use of a float tank in which a solution of Epsom salt is kept at skin temperature to provide effortless floating. Research in USA and Sweden has demonstrated a powerful and profound relaxation after twenty minutes. In some cases, floating may reduce pain and stress and has been shown to release endorphins.

Even actions as simple as a walk in the park have been shown to aid feelings of relaxation, regardless of the initial reason for the visit.[38]

A new relaxation technique course, developed specifically for medical students in universities, was found to be effective in reducing anxiety, burnout, and depression, leading to a significant improvements in academic performance and evaluated parameters.[39] The introduction of this particular course is important because the prevalence of stress-related mental disorders in medical students in significantly higher than the general public.[39]

Side effects

Relaxation techniques are generally deemed safe for healthy individuals, with most research studies reporting no adverse side effects.[40] However, there have been occasional instances where individuals have reported negative experiences such as heightened anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or fear of losing control.[41]

In particular, some relaxation techniques may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical or psychiatric conditions.[42] In rare cases, these techniques may even exacerbate existing symptoms. For instance, there have been reports that certain relaxation methods can trigger or worsen symptoms in individuals with epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, or a history of abuse or trauma.[43]

See also

References

  1. ^ Goleman, Daniel (May 13, 1986). "Relaxation: Surprising benefits detected". The New York Times. Retrieved May 23, 2006.
  2. ^ Norelli, Samantha K.; Long, Ashley; Krepps, Jeffrey M. (2023), "Relaxation Techniques", StatPearls, Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, PMID 30020610, retrieved 2023-04-15
  3. ^ Toussaint, Loren; Nguyen, Quang Anh; Roettger, Claire; Dixon, Kiara; Offenbächer, Martin; Kohls, Niko; Hirsch, Jameson; Sirois, Fuschia (2021-07-02). Taylor-Piliae, Ruth (ed.). "Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Deep Breathing, and Guided Imagery in Promoting Psychological and Physiological States of Relaxation". Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2021: 1–8. doi:10.1155/2021/5924040. ISSN 1741-4288. PMC 8272667. PMID 34306146.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  4. ^ Belleruth., Naparstek, (2008). Staying Well with Guided Imagery. Grand Central Publishing. ISBN 978-1-59995-636-7. OCLC 1034613276.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: extra punctuation (link) CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  5. ^ "Biofeedback - Mayo Clinic". www.mayoclinic.org. Retrieved 2023-04-15.
  6. ^ Smith, Jonathan C. (2007). "Ch. 3: The Psychology of Relaxation". In Lehrer, Paul M.; Woolfolk, Robert L.; Sime, Wesley E. (eds.). Principles and Practice of Stress Management (3rd ed.). p. 38. ISBN 9781606238288.
  7. ^ a b Irnich, Christine (2013), "Relaxation techniques", Myofascial Trigger Points, Elsevier, pp. 245–252, retrieved 2023-04-15
  8. ^ Chou R, Deyo R, Friedly J, et al. Nonpharmacologic therapies for low back pain: a systematic review for an American College of Physicians clinical practice guideline. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2017;166(7):493-505.
  9. ^ "Relaxation Techniques for Health". NCCIH. Retrieved 2023-04-15.
  10. ^ Bernard C. An Introduction to the Study of Experimental Medicine. Transl. HC Greene. New York: Collier; 18651961.
  11. ^ a b Schneiderman N, Ironson G, Siegel SD. Stress and health: psychological, behavioral, and biological determinants. Annu Rev Clin Psychol. 2005;1:607-628. doi:10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.1.102803.144141
  12. ^ Lehrer P. M., Woolfolk R. L. Principles and Practice of Stress Management. New York, NY, USA: Guilford Press; 2021.
  13. ^ Goleman, Daniel (May 13, 1986). "Relaxation: Surprising benefits detected". The New York Times. Retrieved May 23, 2006.
  14. ^ a b c Toussaint L, Nguyen QA, Roettger C, et al. Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Deep Breathing, and Guided Imagery in Promoting Psychological and Physiological States of Relaxation. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2021;2021:5924040. Published 2021 Jul 2. doi:10.1155/2021/5924040
  15. ^ "Relaxation Techniques for Health". NCCIH. Retrieved 2023-04-15.
  16. ^ a b Toussaint, Loren; Nguyen, Quang Anh; Roettger, Claire; Dixon, Kiara; Offenbächer, Martin; Kohls, Niko; Hirsch, Jameson; Sirois, Fuschia (2021-07-02). Taylor-Piliae, Ruth (ed.). "Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Deep Breathing, and Guided Imagery in Promoting Psychological and Physiological States of Relaxation". Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2021: 1–8. doi:10.1155/2021/5924040. ISSN 1741-4288. PMC 8272667. PMID 34306146.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  17. ^ a b 1888-1983., Jacobson, Edmund, (1974). Progressive relaxation; a physiological and clinical investigation of muscular states and their significance in psychology and medical practice. University of Chicago Press. OCLC 1330616184. {{cite book}}: |last= has numeric name (help)CS1 maint: extra punctuation (link) CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  18. ^ "VA.gov | Veterans Affairs". www.va.gov. Retrieved 2023-04-15.
  19. ^ Pv J., Lobo S. M. Effectiveness of relaxation technique in reducing stress among nursing students. International Journal of Nursing and Health Research. 2020;2(1):54–56
  20. ^ Chaudhuri A., Manna M., Mandal K., Pattanayak K. Is there any effect of progressive muscle relaxation exercise on anxiety and depression of the patient with coronary artery disease? International Journal of Pharma Research and Health Sciences. 2020;8(5):3231–3236. doi: 10.21276/ijprhs.2020.05.03
  21. ^ Pradhan J., Pradhan R., Samantaray K., Pahantasingh S. Progressive muscle relaxation therapy on anxiety among hospitalized cancer patients. European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine. 2020;7(8):1485–1488
  22. ^ Belleruth., Naparstek, (2008). Staying Well with Guided Imagery. Grand Central Publishing. ISBN 978-1-59995-636-7. OCLC 1034613276.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: extra punctuation (link) CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  23. ^ "Guided Imagery/Guided Mental Imagery", Encyclopedia of Pain, Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer Berlin Heidelberg, pp. 835–835, retrieved 2023-04-15
  24. ^ Rees BL. Effect of Relaxation with Guided Imagery on Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem in Primiparas. Journal of Holistic Nursing. 1995;13(3):255-267. doi:10.1177/089801019501300307
  25. ^ Kapogiannis, August; Tsoli, Sofia; Chrousos, George (2018-03-01). "Investigating the Effects of the Progressive Muscle Relaxation-Guided Imagery Combination on Patients with Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy Treatment: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials". EXPLORE. 14 (2): 137–143. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2017.10.008. ISSN 1550-8307.
  26. ^ Prabhaa R. M. R., Joseph A. Intraoperative guided imagery on anxiety. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technolog. 2020;5(10):663–668. doi: 10.35940/ijitee.e2641.039520
  27. ^ Eaton, Kyle W; Ferrari, Thomas M (2020-07-07). "Heart Rate Variability During an Internal Family Systems Approach to Self-Forgiveness". International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Physiology. 7 (2): 52–57. doi:10.5530/ijcep.2020.7.2.14.
  28. ^ Kaplan, Stephen (1995-09). "The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework". Journal of Environmental Psychology. 15 (3): 169–182. doi:10.1016/0272-4944(95)90001-2. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  29. ^ Ulrich, Roger S.; Simons, Robert F.; Losito, Barbara D.; Fiorito, Evelyn; Miles, Mark A.; Zelson, Michael (1991-09). "Stress recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments". Journal of Environmental Psychology. 11 (3): 201–230. doi:10.1016/S0272-4944(05)80184-7. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  30. ^ Jimenez, Marcia P.; DeVille, Nicole V.; Elliott, Elise G.; Schiff, Jessica E.; Wilt, Grete E.; Hart, Jaime E.; James, Peter (2021-04-30). "Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence". International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 18 (9): 4790. doi:10.3390/ijerph18094790. ISSN 1660-4601. PMC 8125471. PMID 33946197.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  31. ^ a b c Nguyen, Jessica; Brymer, Eric (2018-10-02). "Nature-Based Guided Imagery as an Intervention for State Anxiety". Frontiers in Psychology. 9: 1858. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01858. ISSN 1664-1078. PMC 6176042. PMID 30333777.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  32. ^ a b "Biofeedback - Mayo Clinic". www.mayoclinic.org. Retrieved 2023-04-15.
  33. ^ PRATO, CATHERINE A.; YUCHA, CAROLYN B.. Biofeedback-Assisted Relaxation Training to Decrease Test Anxiety in Nursing Students. Nursing Education Perspectives 34(2):p 76-81, March 2013.
  34. ^ MCGINNIS RA, MCGRADY A, COX SA, GROWER-DOWLING KA. . Biofeedback-Assisted Relaxation in Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2005; 28 (9): 2145-2149.
  35. ^ Yucha, Carolyn B. PhD, RN, BCIA, FAAN; Tsai, Pei-Shan PhD, RN, BCIA; Calderon, Kristine S. PhD, CHES, BCIA; Tian, Lili PhD. Biofeedback-assisted Relaxation Training for Essential Hypertension: Who Is Most Likely to Benefit?. The Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing 20(3):p 198-205, May 2005.
  36. ^ Smith, Jonathan C. (2007). "Ch. 3: The Psychology of Relaxation". In Lehrer, Paul M.; Woolfolk, Robert L.; Sime, Wesley E. (eds.). Principles and Practice of Stress Management (3rd ed.). p. 38. ISBN 9781606238288.
  37. ^ Smith, Jonathan C. (2007). "Ch. 3: The Psychology of Relaxation". In Lehrer, Paul M.; Woolfolk, Robert L.; Sime, Wesley E. (eds.). Principles and Practice of Stress Management (3rd ed.). pp. 46–7. ISBN 9781606238288.
  38. ^ Irvine, KN; Warber, SL; Devine-Wright, P; Gaston, K (2013). "Understanding urban green space as a health resource: A qualitative comparison of visit motivation and derived effects among park users in Sheffield, UK". International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 10 (1): 417–42. doi:10.3390/ijerph10010417. PMC 3564151. PMID 23340602.
  39. ^ a b Wild, Katharina; Scholz, Michael; Ropohl, Axel; Bräuer, Lars; Paulsen, Friedrich; Burger, Pascal H. M. (2014-12-17). "Strategies against Burnout and Anxiety in Medical Education – Implementation and Evaluation of a New Course on Relaxation Techniques (Relacs) for Medical Students". PLOS ONE. 9 (12): e114967. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0114967. ISSN 1932-6203. PMC 4269409. PMID 25517399.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  40. ^ Chou R, Deyo R, Friedly J, et al. Nonpharmacologic therapies for low back pain: a systematic review for an American College of Physicians clinical practice guideline. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2017;166(7):493-505.
  41. ^ Goessl VC, Curtiss JE, Hofmann SG. The effect of heart rate variability biofeedback training on stress and anxiety: a meta-analysis. Psychological Medicine. 2017;47(15):2578-2586.
  42. ^ Hopper SI, Murray SL, Ferrara LR, et al. Effectiveness of diaphragmatic breathing for reducing physiological and psychological stress in adults: a quantitative systematic review. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports. 2019;17(9):1855-1876.
  43. ^ "Relaxation Techniques for Health". NCCIH. Retrieved 2023-04-15.
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