2633 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204 | Phone: 209-944-5530 | Fax: 209-944-5990

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Progressive RelaxationRelajaci³n progresiva

Progressive Relaxation

Your body needs relaxation to reduce stress and undo the fight-or-flight response. It helps to plan for 20 minutes of relaxation every day. This is time for yourself. Sit or lie comfortably. Limit distractions like phones. Listen to soft music or just sit in silence. And try the relaxation technique below.

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Progressive Relaxation

Progressive relaxation helps your whole body relax. To try this technique, follow these steps:

  1. Find a quiet room. Sit in a comfortable chair or lie on your back.

  2. Inhale deeply to a slow count of 5. Feel your belly, chest, and back expand. Exhale slowly to a count of 5.

  3. After a few minutes, inhale deeply. Tighten the muscles in your feet. Notice how it feels. Hold the tension for 3 seconds.

  4. Exhale while relaxing the tightened muscles. Notice how relaxed you feel.

  5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 with another muscle group. You can progress from your feet, calves, and thighs to your stomach, arms, and hands.

Remember the 4 A's

  • Avoid a stressor. If someone is smoking when you're trying to quit, leave the room.

  • Accept a stressor you can't change, like a job loss, by knowing that your feelings are normal.

  • Alter how you deal with a stressor. If a constantly ringing phone is a stressor, let the answering machine pick up.

  • Adapt to some stressors. When starting a new exercise program, instead of focusing on how hard it will be, think how good you will feel.

Date Last Reviewed: 2007-01-15T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2002-07-09T00:00:00-06:00

To request an appointment, please call our cardiology office in Stockton, California at 209-944-5530 or use our online Appointment Request Form.

To request an appointment, please call our cardiology office in Stockton California at 209-944-5530 or use our
Online Appointment Request Form
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Manshadi Heart Institute, Inc.

2633 Pacific Avenue
Stockton, CA 95204
Phone: 209-944-5530
Fax: 209-944-5990
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1210 W Tokay Street
Lodi, CA 95240
Phone: 209-370-3580
Fax: 209-944-5990
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