As we embark on a new year, many of us are seeking ways to improve our wellbeing and reduce stress in our lives. One powerful tool that has stood the test of time is the Relaxation Response, a concept developed by Dr Herbert Benson, a Harvard cardiologist and pioneer in mind-body medicine.

The Relaxation Response is a physical state of deep rest that counteracts the Stress Response that may well feel more familiar in our bodies in these go go go 24/7 times we live in.

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The Relaxation Response is a natural antidote to the Fight Flight response, which can be triggered all too often in our busy modern lives. Dr Benson's groundbreaking work, published in his 1975 book The Relaxation Response, remains relevant and potentially life-changing even today.

Why the Relaxation Response matters

With up to 90% of doctor's visits attributed to stress-related issues, it's clear that managing stress is crucial for our overall health. Stress can exacerbate chronic conditions, intensify pain, and contribute to a host of physical and mental health problems. By regularly practising the Relaxation Response, we can mitigate some of these effects and promote healing in our bodies.

How to elicit the Relaxation Response

The beauty of the relaxation response is its simplicity and accessibility. You don't need any special equipment or beliefs to benefit from it. Here's a basic method to get started:

1. Choose a quality you'd like more of in your life (e.g., calm, peace, joy – check out last week’s episode (38) Your Vibe for 2025 to help you choose).

2. Find a comfortable position where you feel supported.

3. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.

4. As you breathe in, imagine drawing in the quality you've chosen.

5. As you breathe out, imagine spreading that quality throughout your body.

6. Continue this practice for at least three minutes.

Consciously incorporate more rest into your routine

As we start the new year, it's an excellent time to prioritise rest and relaxation in our daily lives. This might mean scheduling regular breaks, practising yoga nidra, or simply giving ourselves permission to do less and be more.

Remember, your to-do list will never be completely finished. Life is inherently messy and busy. By making space for rest and relaxation, we're not falling behind – we're actually setting ourselves up for greater productivity, creativity, and overall wellbeing.

A different approach to New Year, New You

Instead of pushing ourselves to do more this year, why not challenge ourselves to rest more deeply? By consciously activating the Relaxation Response regularly, we can improve our physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

Whether you choose to practise formal meditation, engage in repetitive activities like knitting or running, or simply take a few minutes each day to breathe mindfully, you're giving your body and mind a precious gift.

As we step into 2025, you might make a commitment to yourself to prioritise rest, play, and relaxation. By doing so, we're not just improving our own lives – we're contributing to a calmer, more peaceful world.

Wishing you a very Happy New Year! One that will include deep rest, joyful play, and the transformative power of the Relaxation Response.

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Episode: https://selfcarecoaching.net/the-feel-better-every-day-podcast-feed/the-power-of-the-relaxation-response-a-new-years-resolution-to-relax-into