There are many different ways to relax. You just need to find the one that works best for you. Remember, everyone experiences pain and stress differently, a relaxation technique that works for you may not work for someone else.

Everyday Relaxation Tips

• Going for a walk
• Playing with a pet
• Doing arts and crafts
• Taking with a friend
• Getting a massage
• Reading a good book
• Watching the clouds
• Listening to favorite music

Responses to Pain

Experiencing pain can trigger a stress response in your body.  This stress response will release chemicals that will increase your heart rate, breathing and blood pressure – and increase your pain. It can also make it difficult to get a good night's sleep.

A relaxation response is the opposite of a stress response and occurs when your body is at rest. You may feel your body calming, your heart rate and breathing slowing and your blood pressure decreasing.

The relaxation response helps decrease pain and improve sleep. (National Institute of Health)

References

Pain Assesment and Management Initiative http://pami.emergency.med.jax.ufl.edu

Reviewed by: Cindy Garlesky. For more information visit nicklauschildrens.org/PainAwareness.