Stress Reliever: Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Stress Reliever: Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Try this technique when experiencing physical tension caused by stress. It takes less than 15 minutes and can make a world of difference in your ability to manage your stress levels.
Sit or lie in a comfortable position in a location where you will not be disturbed Beginning with your head, intentionally flex your facial and neck muscles for 5-10 seconds, then relax tensed muscles Move downward and do the same with your arm, hand, and chest muscles Continue by tensing your abdomen, glutes, and thigh muscles, then release Finish by doing the same for your calves and feet, until you’ve tensed and relaxed your entire body
Helpful Tips: Flex and relax one major muscle group at a time in the order of head to toe While tensing and releasing, be sure to feel the difference between your muscles under tension and your muscles fully relaxed Pay attention to your breath. Deep, rhythmic breathing can help your muscles further relax Try practicing this technique at least once per day to maximize the benefits
Used with permission— Angela Sickler
Try this technique when experiencing physical tension caused by stress. It takes less than 15 minutes and can make a world of difference in your ability to manage your stress levels.
Sit or lie in a comfortable position in a location where you will not be disturbed Beginning with your head, intentionally flex your facial and neck muscles for 5-10 seconds, then relax tensed muscles Move downward and do the same with your arm, hand, and chest muscles Continue by tensing your abdomen, glutes, and thigh muscles, then release Finish by doing the same for your calves and feet, until you’ve tensed and relaxed your entire body
Helpful Tips: Flex and relax one major muscle group at a time in the order of head to toe While tensing and releasing, be sure to feel the difference between your muscles under tension and your muscles fully relaxed Pay attention to your breath. Deep, rhythmic breathing can help your muscles further relax Try practicing this technique at least once per day to maximize the benefits
Used with permission— Angela Sickler
