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Notice: Please note that all information contained on this website or any video presentations embedded on our webpages are only for educational and/or informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do consult your doctor or health care provider for all aspects relating to your specific medical condition.
Post relaxation
After you have finished your relaxation exercise carefully engage with your next activity. Do not rush to stand up quickly just in case you need a moment or two to adjust. Often when a person relaxes, their heart rate and blood pressure fall so you could feel a little light-headed or dizzy if you get too up quickly. We suggest opening your eyes, and ensure you feel okay to stand up.
Do relaxation techniques have any side effects?
The National Center for Complementary Integrative Health (USA) state that Relaxation techniques are generally considered safe for healthy people. In most research studies, there have been no reported negative side effects. However, occasionally, people report negative experiences such as increased anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or fear of losing control. There have been rare reports that certain relaxation techniques might cause or worsen symptoms in people with epilepsy or certain psychiatric conditions, or with a history of abuse or trauma. People with heart disease should talk to their health care providers before doing progressive muscle relaxation.
More To Consider
The National Center for Complementary Integrative Health (USA) also state that If you have severe or long-lasting symptoms of any kind, see your health care provider. You might have a condition that needs to betreated promptly. For example, if depression or anxiety persists, it’simportant to seek help from a qualified health care professional. Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providersabout any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.
The website is updated by Prof Stephen Palmer PhD CBiol CPsychol FRSB FIHPE (Hon), a Registered Health Psychologist, Chartered Biologist, Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology and Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Health Promotion and Education. He is Director of the National Wellbeing Service Ltd which maintains this website. The International Academy for Professional Development Ltd provides the Zoom facilities for Webinars.
