- less tension held in
the musculature of the body
- a calm emotional state
- increased energy
- restful sleep
Click
here to experience
a live sample of progressive relaxation
Autogenic Training:
Developed by
Johannes Schultz and Wolfgang Luthe in the 1930's, this method
of relaxation utilizes the healing capabilities of the brain
and the power of suggestion. This method involves repeating certain
mental directives and concentrating on them until the body responds.
An example of this would be "My arms are heavy and warm"
and focus on the sensation of the arms feeling heavy and warm.
The benefits noted using Autogenic Training Relaxation are many.
Here are a few.
- complete relaxation
of mind and body
- less fatigue and tension
in the musculature of the body
- improved efficiency
at work
- restful sleep
- relief from anxiety
Relaxation Response:
During the 1970's there evolved yet another contribution in the
area of relaxation. Dr.Herbert Benson at Harvard Medical School
discovered the Relaxation Response. The Relaxation Response method
involves quieting the mind in a peaceful setting, while assuming
a comfortable position and the mental repetition of a word or
mantra of sorts.
The benefits with this type of relaxation are many. They include:
- a decreased heart and
respiratory rate
- deeper breathing
- significant levels of
alpha brain waves
- a profound rested state
- feelings of peace, satisfaction
and inner balance
Place of Peace
Relaxation:
This method to reaching a relaxed state is one of my favorites.
I developed this method based on the many types of relaxation
methods I have learned and practice. It works well for me. By
using this particular relaxation technique I am able to get to
a relaxed state within minutes.
The Place
of Peace relaxation
involves using visualization and guided imagery. The body relaxes
through a series of deep breaths and focus is brought away from
the mind and into the heart. You are then guided to your own
peaceful place. The rest is your own inner journey to your place
of peace.
The goal of this method of relaxation is to give you your own
experience of what it feels like to be relaxed. You essentially
take yourself to your own place of peace. This is a powerful
skill because once you know internally what it feels like for
you to be relaxed, you can access this place whenever you wish.
All types of relaxation techniques involve a self directed method
for achieving relaxation. It just depends on which method feels
most suitable for you. Try each one on so to speak and feel which
one fits you the best.
To experience the Place of Peace Relaxation Click
here
I wish you well in your
practice of relaxation and may you embrace the place within yourself
where peace lives.
Susan
M. Castle