10 physiological effects of relaxation

Only needed a few minutes . It does not cost money, nor superhuman efforts. It can be done anywhere and its benefits are so great that it can even change our lives. We talk about relaxation therapies (such as yoga or meditation) that not only compensate for excess stimuli and of stress in today's life , but they release the body and mind from the tensions that hinder the optimal functioning of the organism, as well as the natural processes of self-healing.

One of the most outstanding scientists who amply demonstrated the beneficial effects of relaxation practices , was the American cardiologist Herbert Benson , According to his conclusions, relaxation:

  1. Reduces muscle tension . Most people have permanently contracted muscles, which gives rise to many discomforts and even injuries
  2. Modify the electrical rhythms of the brain . According to Benson, relaxation favors the predominance of alpha electric waves, associated with tranquility and receptivity
  3. Decreases heart rate and lowers blood pressure . The dilation of the blood vessels makes the circulation improve and the nutrients reach all the cells. This effect makes relaxation especially interesting for people with heart conditions
  4. Reduces the release of hormones related to stress . Adrenaline and noradrenaline flow in less quantity, which reduces stress on the circulatory system
  5. Decrease oxygen consumption . A positive consequence is that carcinogenic free radicals that inevitably occur during metabolic processes also decrease
  6. Breathing becomes more regular and deep . Most people have become accustomed to breathing in an accelerated and superficial way
  7. Low blood cholesterol level . Cholesterol is related to the development of arteriosclerosis and the greatest possibility of suffering a heart attack
  8. Increase the number and effectiveness of immune cells ; therefore, it protects against infectious diseases and, even, cancer
  9. Improves intestinal activity , which is often affected by excess tension
  10. Feelings of calm emerge ; they also increase control and self-confidence.

Relaxation therapies: they cost nothing and their benefits are many.


Video Medicine: How stress affects your brain - Madhumita Murgia (March 2024).