2. Definition
Relaxation therapy is a broad term used to describe a
number of techniques that promotestress reduction,
theeliminationof tension throughoutthe body, and a
calm and peaceful state of mind.
A decrease in tension or intensity , resulting in
refreshment of body and mind. A stateof refreshing
tranquility .
3. What is Relaxation Therapy?
During sleep, the mind can remain active, though the
rhythm is slower than thatof the mind when awake. Have
you everslept fora full night, butawoke still feeling tired?
When the mind isactive, sleep is not always restful.
Theaim of relaxation therapy is toquiet the mind; toallow
thoughts to flow in a smooth, level rhythm, and induce the
relaxation response. This mental quiet allows for rest and
rejuvenation thatdoes not always occur, even during sleep.
Relaxation therapy does not attempt to empty the mind,
since it is not possible to think of nothing. In relaxation, we
focus the mind, and relax both mind andbody.
4. Purpose of relaxation therapy
Relaxation therapy techniquescalm the bodyand
providea natural cure forsymptomsof
stress and anxiety by inducing the relaxation
response - theoppositeof the body's stress response
Prevent excessivearousal
Decrease the physical and mental symptomsof
nervousness
Alternativeto motivational methods to notoverarouse
theathlete.
6. Progressive Muscle Relaxation
The most common form ofrelaxation
Involves the athlete tensing and relaxingmuscle
groups from top tobottom.
Objective is to reduce musculartension
Reduces heart and breathingrate
Should not be used beforecompetition
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86HUcX8Z
tAk
7. Autogenic Training
Relies upon feelings of heavinessand warmth in
muscles.
3 parts:
- Creation of the feelings of heaviness andwarmth
- Use of imagery of relaxingscenes
- Use of specificthemes
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcX1zPJyzo8
8. Meditation
Involves deep breathing andconcentration
Allows tension to leave the bodywith exhalation.
Forms:
- sitting quietly for 20minutes
-focusing on aword orsymbol
whilst controlling breathing.
9. Biofeedback
Based on the concept of psycho-cybernatics.
Uses instruments which measure changes inbodily
functions.
Instruments can measure changesin:
- Skin temperature
- Sweating
- Heart rate
- Breathing
- Muscleactivity
- Brain waves
10. Exercise
Can improve moodstate
Reduce muscletension
Light, aerobicexercise
Examples:
- Going for a lightjog
- Doing exercises such as TaiChi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEOS2zoyQw4
14. Visualization
Mental imagery
Requires participant tocreatea picture in their mind
Example:
Can see themselveswinning theevent theyareabout
to participate in.
21. Precautions
Relaxation techniques that involve special exercises or body
manipulation (massage and yoga )may not be suitable for individuals
withcertain health conditionssuch as arthritisor fibromyalgia. These
individuals should consult with their healthcare professionals before
engaging in thesetherapies.
Biofeedback may be contraindicated (not recommended) in some
individuals who use a pacemaker or other implantable electrical
devices. These individuals should inform theirtherapist beforestarting
treatments, as certain types of biofeedback sensors have the potential
to interfere with theiruse.
Relaxation therapy may not be suitable for some unwillingpatients.
Some relaxation therapies mayalso be inappropriate forcognitively
impaired individuals (e.g., patients with organic brain disease or
a traumatic brain injury) depending on their level of functioning.
22. Role of the nurse in relaxation
therapy
Assessment –genetic influence ,past experience,client
perception of the stressor ,adaptionresponse
Diagnosis
1 risk prone healthbehavior
2 anxiety
3 disturbed bodyimage
4 coping , defensive
5 decisionalconflict
6 fear
7 hopelessness