Relaxation increases energy and focus

When stress is out-of-control, it can get in the way of your ability to:

* Think clearly and creatively
* Communicate clearly
* Accurately “read” other people
* Hear what someone is really saying
* Trust others
* Attend to your own needs

The body’s natural relaxation response is a powerful antidote to stress. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, and yoga can help you activate this relaxation response.

The relaxation response

You can’t avoid all stress, but you can counteract its negative effects by learning how to evoke the relaxation response, a state of deep rest that is the polar opposite of the stress response.

The stress response floods your body with chemicals that prepare you for “fight or flight.” But while the stress response is helpful in true emergency situations where you must be alert, it wears your body down when constantly activated.

The relaxation response brings your system back into balance: deepening your breathing, reducing stress hormones, slowing down your heart rate and blood pressure, and relaxing your muscles.

In addition to its calming physical effects, research shows that the relaxation response also increases energy and focus, combats illness, relieves aches and pains, heightens problem-solving abilities, and boosts motivation and productivity. Best of all – with a little practice – anyone can reap these benefits.

Melinda Smith, M.A., and Jaelline Jaffe, Ph.D

Guided imagery for stress relief

Visualization, or guided imagery, is a variation on traditional meditation that can help relieve stress. When used as a relaxation technique, guided imagery involves imagining a scene in which you feel at peace, free to let go of all tension and anxiety. Choose whatever setting is most calming to you, whether a tropical beach, a favorite childhood spot, or a quiet wooded glen. You can do this using an audio recording or speaker during a conference with the right lighting, sound and aroma it can have a amazing effect.

Delegates will close their eyes and let their worries drift away. Imagining a restful place. Picturing it as vividly as they can—everything they can see, hear, smell, and feel. Guided imagery works best if you incorporate as many sensory details as possible. For example, if you are thinking about a dock on a quiet lake:

* See the sun setting over the water
* Hear the birds singing
* Smell the pine trees
* Feel the cool water on your bare feet
* Taste the fresh, clean air

To invite someone to speak at your conference about meditation, search for motivational and personal growth speakers.