What is Relaxation?

Relaxation is a feeling of calm in body and mind. If we feel calm then we can often face difficult situations more easily and manage them effectively. Some people experiencing cancer use relaxation to achieve a sense of control over their illness and to reduce anxiety during what can be a very difficult time.

Learning to relax your body and your mind is a skill that can be learnt and becomes easier with practice. It involves the use of techniques to reduce tension and can be applied in stressful situations, as well as in many aspects of everyday life.

Relaxation Methods and Techniques

There are various approaches to achieving relaxation. These include breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery or visualisation.

Learning relaxation techniques involves no drugs, no unpleasant side effects, no difficult postures or strenuous exercise and no 'brainwashing' or hypnosis.

Different methods of relaxation work for different people and our therapists will help you to find the approach that works best for you


What can relaxation achieve for patients?

Regular relaxation can have a range of both physical and psychological benefits for the user. Studies have shown relaxation to:

• Reduced emotional distress, anxiety and depression
• Decrease treatment related symptoms such as nausea and pain 
• Increase coping skills and overall feeling of control over illness

Who can benefit?

• Anyone experiencing stress and anxiety related to their condition, or who would like to learn relaxation techniques for everyday life.
• Carers looking after a patient.

Relaxation tapes and CDs are available for purchase through The Cancer Council Victoria. Telephone 13 11 20.

Relaxation sessions will be offered in the new Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre, when completed.

For further information about relaxation sessions, contact the Wellness Program Coordinator 03 9496 3379.