Progressive Muscle Relaxation Introduction
The process of progressive muscle relaxation is simply isolating one muscle group; creating tension for a short period of time; and then letting the muscle relax and the tension go. This procedure of creating tension and then releasing it is applied to every major muscle group of the body, and ultimately results in a sense of peacefulness and overall relaxed muscles. Muscle tension is one of the more common responses to stress. This technique can help condition your body to relax tensed areas of the body when discomfort is experienced.
What to expect?
You will be asked to tense a muscle group either by tightening, clinching, or curling the area and then hold it for a few moments before letting it relax. Your breathing will be very important to focus on while doing this technique. Taking deep, slow, diaphragmatic breaths will slow down your mind and body to help create a sense of relaxation.
This exercise will begin at your toes and work its way up to your head. The same pattern of tightening and releasing the tension will be performed on various muscle groups. Take your time with this technique and enjoy the freedom of tension being released from your mind and body.
You will need a comfortable location to sit down, free of distractions, and focus on your body. If you like, adjust the lighting of the space you are in to make it calm and relaxing.
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