Other Ideas

Traditional Eastern Systems for Daily Practice

Practices such as yoga, tai chi, and qi gong are excellent for cultivating strength, flexibility, equanimity, and relieving stress. These exercises are becoming increasingly popular and common, and are available at many local community centers, schools, and health clubs.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback uses a measuring device to assess how relaxed you are and teach how to relax more effectively. Biofeedback equipment monitors systems of which you are not normally aware, such as blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and brain wave patterns. As you practice biofeedback, you develop the ability to change these systems (for example, lower your blood pressure).

You can try a simple biofeedback exercise on your own, using a thermometer as a guide. Hold a thermometer between your index finger and thumb, and note the temperature. Then, complete one of the relaxation techniques previously described. After your session, measure your temperature again.

If you are interested in further exploring biofeedback, consult with a psychologist or other health provider who works with it.