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Relaxation: mapping an uncharted world

J C Smith1, A Amutio, J P Anderson

  • 1Roosevelt University, Chicago, Illinois 60605, USA.

Biofeedback and Self-Regulation
|March 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary
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This study reveals that different relaxation techniques, including massage, progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), yoga, breathing, and meditation, lead to distinct subjective experiences. These findings challenge existing models and suggest new dimensions for understanding relaxation.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Mind-Body Medicine
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Relaxation techniques are widely used for stress reduction.
  • Existing models of the relaxation response lack specificity regarding technique-based experiences.
  • Cognitive-behavioral relaxation theory offers a framework for understanding subjective relaxation states.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the subjective experiences associated with various relaxation techniques.
  • To identify distinct categories of relaxation experiences.
  • To test the predictive power of existing relaxation models and propose a revised model.

Main Methods:

  • A large sample of 940 practitioners described their experiences with relaxation techniques using an 82-item wordlist.
  • Factor analysis was employed to identify underlying dimensions of relaxation experience.

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  • Technique-specific associations with relaxation categories were analyzed.

    • Main Results:

    • Factor analysis identified 10 interpretable relaxation categories (e.g., Joyful, Calm, Aware, Limp).
    • Existing models (relaxation response, cognitive/somatic specificity) explained only a small portion of the variance in relaxation experience.
    • Significant technique differences emerged: PMR/massage linked to 'Distant' and 'Limp'; yoga/breathing/meditation to 'Aware'; meditation to 'Prayerful'; most techniques to 'Joyful'.

    Conclusions:

    • Subjective relaxation experiences vary significantly across different techniques.
    • A revised model of relaxation encompassing three global dimensions (tension-relief, passive disengagement, passive engagement) is proposed.
    • Findings have implications for relaxation theory, treatment, training, assessment, and research.