Relaxation Technique - History
The word relax has its origin in the Latin word relaxare which means to loosen.
The history of relaxation is an interesting one. There is reference to relaxing and resting within the Bible. Many of the Eastern religions promote meditative practices to still the mind and relax the body. Some of the more modern relaxation techniques were developed in the 1920s and 30s.
Progressive Relaxation
In 1929, for example, Dr. Edmund Jacobson published his book, Progressive Relaxation. This technique involves tensing and then relaxing specific muscle groups. The desired end result, of course, is to put yourself in a state of total relaxation simply by systematically directing your muscles to loosen and relax.
Autogenic Training
In 1932, Johannes Schultz and Wolfgang Luthe developed a method of relaxation that emphasized using the power of suggestion, termed autogenic training. This method involves repeating certain mental directives and concentrating on them until the body responds. You repeat a phrase such as: my legs are heavy and warm and then focus on the sensation of the feeling heavy and warm in your legs.
Relaxation Response
During the 1970's, a pioneer in the field of relaxation, Dr. Herbert Benson ,elaborated on the idea of a relaxation response. He developed a scientific basis for relaxing. The relaxation response technique involves the mental repetition of a word, sound, phrase or prayer while disregarding any other thoughts that come to mind. Eliciting a relaxation response from your body is the goal, particularly for health conditions that are caused or made worse by stress.
Stay tuned for more articles on techniques to help you relax.
© Copyright, Sylvia Carlson, 2006. Reproduction without permission prohibited.
Sylvia Carlson - Sylvia has been writing for Suite 101 since 2006, and has written both alternative and mainstream health care related articles.
