Stress management: Doing progressive muscle relaxation

Why try progressive muscle relaxation?

Progressive muscle relaxation can reduce anxiety, stress, and muscle tension, and it may help if you have trouble falling asleep. As you learn how your "tense" muscles feel and how your "relaxed" muscles feel, you may be able to tell when you need to relax.

Progressive muscle relaxation is easy to do. And if you can find a place to lie down and get comfortable, you can do it anytime you need it.

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1. People who have anxiety, stress, muscle tension, or trouble falling asleep may benefit from progressive muscle relaxation.

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Author:	Merrill Hayden	Last Updated: May 21, 2008
Medical Review:	Catherine D. Serio, PhD - Behavioral Health Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
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