Learning how to relax, being able to easily let go of emotional upsets and body tensions, is an important skill to have in this increasingly stressful world we live in. But how do we learn to relax? Relaxation methods, including thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors, can help us to overcome our own stress response, thereby relieving physical and emotional problems.

We can learn how to slow and deepen our breathing, lower our own blood pressure, increase blood flow to our muscles, reduce muscle tension and even eliminate chronic pain. Relaxation techniques can also help our mental abilities, improving our concentration, reducing negative emotions such as anger, sadness and frustration, and improve our confidence and ability to handle difficulties and problems.

There are many different relaxation techniques that will help us to reduce stress and train our mind and body to relax. We can focus on deep breathing, progressive relaxation, tensing and relaxing body parts, guided imagery, visualization, biofeedback, exercise, yoga, and even tai chi.

Another very powerful relaxation technique is receiving touch, a gentle hand on our shoulder or the touch of a skilled body therapy practitioner. Massage therapy, acupuncture, acupressure, Feldenkrais, Alexander technique, Reiki, Polarity Therapy and many other touch therapies offer different relaxation techniques.

One method, the one I have studied and practice for over two decades combines, for me, the best of so many other methods. The Rubenfeld Synergy Method of talk and touch provides a powerful holistic approach to relaxation of the mind and body and spirit, teaching clients numerous relaxation techniques during each session.

The non-invasive, non-threatening, gentle touch provided by a Rubenfeld Synergist encourages the client to use their own resources, to tap into their own relaxation techniques. As the Rubenfeld Synergist guides a client’s body to let go of habitual tension, the client’s mind focuses on thoughts, images and possible meanings connected to specific body tensions. The client is guided to explore the thought, clarify the image and discover new ways of perceiving currently problematic experiences. Relaxation techniques include gentle touch to help the body relax, empathic words to encourage self-acceptance, guided imagery and visualization to help the client discover new meanings for familiar circumstances.

Touch is a relaxation technique that is often overlooked. But a moment of sincere and gentle touch is all it takes for a receptive client to instantly access their own relaxation techniques and instantly let go of chronic tension patterns. As the body tension releases, the mind is free to explore new possibilities for relaxation and stress management. Relaxation techniques are a fundamental ingredient in every session provided by a Certified Rubenfeld Synergist.

Have you been touched today? I have heard that we need at least 5 hugs a day for health. Are you aware of possible emotional meanings for those persistent aches and pains in your body? Want to find out more, http://www.Rubenfeld Synergy.com or contact me at DrErica@DrEricaWellness.com.

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