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What is Relaxation?
Relaxation is a feeling of calm in body and mind. It is a learned technique that improves and becomes easier with practice. It involves the use of effective techniques to reduce tension in stressful situations, and everyday life.
Relaxation methods & techniques
There are various forms of relaxation available, including:
- Breathing techniques
- Jacobsen's progressive muscle relaxation
- Guided imagery/visualisation
- Autogenic training
- 'Quick techniques'
Different methods work for different people. Our therapists assist the patient in selecting the most suitable type of relaxation techniques for them.
Relaxation is a skill for life that requires regular practice for it to become effective. It can be very helpful for some patients to achieve a sense of control over their illness and to reduce anxiety in what is a very difficult time.
Learning relaxation techniques involves no drugs, no unpleasant side effects, no difficult postures or strenuous exercise and no 'brainwashing' or hypnosis.
What can relaxation achieve for patients?
Relaxation has a range of both physical and psychological benefits for the user.
Physical benefits:
- Reduced heart rate
- Reduced blood pressure
- Relieving pain and physical discomfort
- Relieving nausea
- Improved physical skills
Psychological benefits:
- Improved sleep
- Increased feelings of control of disease process
- Improved concentration
- Feeling more calm, happy and energetic
- Increased self-esteem and confidence
- Easing of relationships with others
- Improved quality of life (Cooper, 1998)
Who can benefit?
- Anyone experiencing stress and anxiety related to their condition, or life in general
- Carers looking after a patient
- Those having difficulty coping with treatment
Relaxation tapes and CDs are available for purchase through The Cancer Council Victoria (phone: 131120).
For more information please contact Julia Scott, Occupational Therapist: (03) 9496 4048
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