When I first started my clinical training as a psychologist, some of the first techniques I learned were relaxation exercises. These are concrete, specific behaviors that clients can use to reduce the ...

Systematic desensitization is an evidence-based therapy approach that combines relaxation techniques with gradual exposure to help you slowly overcome a phobia. During systematic desensitization, also ...

This article was reviewed by Julia Switzer, MD, FACOG. Menopause relaxation techniques can help manage daily stress while navigating the physical and emotional changes of menopause. Key Takeaways: ...

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is a technique where a person tenses and relaxes different muscles in their body to relieve tension and induce a relaxation response. The relaxation response is a ...

As Amber Lloyd, the founder of Britain’s first relaxation charity—Relaxation for Living (RforL)—reminisced, her husband had suffered a heart attack in 1969 and was told by his doctor to relax. “We ...

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure—at least in the short term—but the longer term effects are unclear, finds a pooled data analysis of the existing research published in the open ...

Deep breathing, guided imagery, yoga, and meditation may help slow the body’s stress response and promote a sense of calm. These tools work best as part of a broader approach, which can include ...