Today we will extend a little knowledge about Muscle Relaxation Techniques and Progressive Muscle Relaxation.
As you know, in our section dedicated to muscle relaxation techniques, Muscle RelaxersList, spoke often of the benefits it brings the practice of exercises selected for our muscle problems.

Usually we see these techniques rely on, people with all types of muscle disorders, but mostpeople with anxiety problems, and muscle stiffness. For them and for all who seek to expand their knowledge in the field of

Muscle Relaxation Techniques and Progressive Muscle Relaxation

The term Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) refers to the technique of systematic relaxation of muscles beginning usually from the lower limbs of the body and gradually progressing towards the upper half. This technique was developed more than half a century ago by Dr. Edmund Jacobson.

In this technique, the muscles are made tense and held in this state for a few seconds. Then they are relaxed and kept in the relaxed state for an equal period of time. Repeating this cycle of tensioning and relaxing the muscles induces a “deep state of relaxation” as it is commonly known. Over the years this technique has been successfully used to treat physical and mental ailments and has proved very useful to patients who have used it.

The beneficial effects of progressive muscle relaxation are explained below.

1. Reduction in anxiety

Anxiety is accompanied by stiffening of muscles. Therefore relaxing muscles through this technique has an inverse affect and reduces the level of anxiety. This happens because the physical relaxation (of the muscles) calms down the mind and rolls back activities caused by anxiety.

2. Returns heart beat to normal

During anxiety, there is an increased blood flow to the muscles. When this state persists for long, there is an unnecessary strain on the heart which slowly wears down the heart. When progressive muscle relaxation is practiced, the muscles become relaxed. This reduces the need for more blood. As a result the heart slows down gradually. Thus gradual relaxation of muscles reduces the heart beat. This improves the condition of the heart.

3. Reduction in aches and pains

Several people complain of backache and pain in various parts of their body. Such painful occurrences can be countered by progressive muscles relaxation. While working, the muscles of the back remain tensed for a long time. This causes tiredness and fatigue in the muscles. Progressive muscle relaxation can relax the muscles of the back and bring about a relief from pain. People who suffer from pain in the forearms, shoulders, calf muscles and the muscles of the feet can benefit a lot with this technique. It can also be used to cut headaches by relaxing the muscles of the head and the neck.

4. Reduction in the effect of phobia

The natural response of people who suffer from various phobias is to become tense which is visible in the form of tensed muscles. By relaxing the muscles through progressive muscle relaxation technique, they can reduce the effect of phobia on their body. By reversing the process, they can gain a little control over their responses to various kinds of phobias.