Progressive Muscle Relaxation

PMR is a relaxation strategy that can be helpful for stress, anxiety, pain, sleep quality and headaches. It involves tensing and then releasing muscles. It can be done starting from your head and working your way down the body or starting at your feet and working your way up. Some individuals find they like to be guided and others prefer to have no guidance. Starting out, I would recommend doing guided PMR; Insight Timer app has PMR audios that are easy and relaxing to follow (and the app is free). Whether you had a long day and are looking to unwind, are having difficulty sleeping or worried about the future, PMR can be a helpful technique to activate the parasympathetic nervous system activity (our rest and digest nervous system) and relax the mind and body. 

Give it a try!

Start by sitting or laying down on your back (laying down is my preference) and following along the  guided audio clip.

Click here for PMR guided audio

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. Please seek a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Do not delay medical advice or treatment because of something you read on this website.