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Relaxation techniques are one of the best ways to clear the mind and perform better at any task. It is one of the best ways to register stress long before the conscious mind does. Some of the greatest minds in history used these skills. Albert Einstein, Ben Franklin, and Thomas Edison, to name a few, had cots set up so that they could take so-called power naps. What a great way to rejuvenate the mind and the body.

Handout 9.4

True or False
1. true
2. false-It decreases pleasure hormones in the body.
3. true
4. false-Regular relaxation can often decrease blood pressure.
5. true
6. true
7. false-A passive attitude is needed for successful relaxation.
8. false-Twice a day is better.
9. true
10. true
Matching: Six Criteria Needed for Successful Relaxation
11. d
12. c
13. f
14. a
15. b
16. e
Matching: Major Relaxation Techniques
17. e
18. h
19. d
20. f
21. c
22. g
23. a
24. b

Handout 9.5

Relaxation Techniques

Have students practice one of these relaxation techniques. Ask how many have done a relaxation technique before. All students will need to cooperate for this to be successful. Students can get into the corpse position (show them), or you can have them sit as comfortably as possible in their chairs with their bodies supported. Go over the six criteria again for successful relaxation.

Closure

I appreciate your being considerate of others. Even if you could not relax, you did not interrupt the session for your classmates. How many of you achieved a successful relaxation? How many had trouble keeping thoughts out of your mind? Mastering these skills takes practice. Perhaps we can try another technique on a different day.

This is an excerpt from Health Education Ideas and Activities.