Biofeedback And Massage - Two Helpful Methods To Reduce Stress

Two useful methods to reduce stress involve someone other than just you. Biofeedback and massage therapy are used for extreme relaxation problems or if you are unable to relax on your own.

Biofeedback requires electric leads that are taped to the patient's head. Then the patient is encouraged to relax using relaxation methods such as breathing techniques, transcendental meditation, and mini-meditation. Once relaxation is achieved, the brain waves are measured and a sound signal is heard when alpha waves are detected. The frequency of the sound will coincide with the state of deep relaxation. When this method is repeated, the patients associate the sound with the feeling of relaxation. After several sessions, the patient is able to reach the state of relaxation and is able to reach the state of complete relaxation by him or herself. This treatment will need to be performed in a medical practitioner's office by a trained professional.

Massage is another form of relaxation therapy. A massage by a trained professional can work all the stress out of your body and put you in a relaxed state of mind. Massage therapy slows down the heart and allows the body to relax. You might think that a massage would make you drowsy but the opposite is true. Your mind becomes more alert during and after a massage.

Several massage therapies are available. Some are offered in "day spas" or in the office of a trained masseuse. The Swedish massage manipulates muscles and is the most common form of massage therapy. It is widely used and it's easy to find someone to give you this massage.

Another form of massage is the Shiatsu. This puts intense pressure on parts of the body. Although it can be painful the feeling of relaxation is great after the treatment is completed. Recently, I had pressure applied to a muscle that had stiffened and was giving me back pains. My husband applied the pressure. Yes, it did hurt when he was pushing on the muscle, but when it was over, the muscle relaxed and has felt better!

Reflexology uses the acupuncture points in the hands and feet to relax the muscles. Certain parts of the hands and feet are massaged. They coincide with acupuncture points that affect specific areas of the body. Reflexology is being widely recognized as an alternative to other more intense massage treatments.

Whichever method of relaxation therapy you use, it is important to be consistent. Hit or miss methods of relaxation do not usually do much good. Make relaxation an important part of your life. You will find that you will enjoy your life and be healthier if you are more relaxed.

When you are looking for someone to help with alternative relaxation methods. You will want to be sure the person you see is reputable. Get recommendations from friends and co-workers. You will be happier with someone who was highly recommended by a friend. Massage done in an unprofessional way may hurt you more than it could help you.

Next article: Managing Stress In Complex Situations

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