Practicing Relaxation Using Home Biofeedback Devices
Many relaxation exercises can be practiced anywhere without any assistive devices.
Diaphragmatic breathing is a very effective exercise for relaxation. Within a few seconds of shifting to a slow-paced breathing pattern there is a change in cardiovascular activity. A person practicing diaphragmatic breathing may feel a noticeable difference in how they feel. They might describe feeling more relaxed than before they changed their breathing. Others, especially those who are new to trying diaphragmatic breathing may not initially notice any change. This is where a biofeedback device can be helpful. A biofeedback device measures signals from the body like heart rate, skin temperature, skin conductance (a measure related to changes in the amount of sweat on the skin), breathing, and muscle tension. Read more