Relaxation Response and Faith Factor

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Relaxation Response and Faith Factor

• One of the most popular simple daily practice
  techniques was developed by cardiologist Herbert
  Benson. Through his early studies he found that
  his relaxation response technique was similar
  to more traditional meditation and other Western
  techniques in lowering heart rate, respiration,
  blood pressure, in slowing brain waves, and in
  overall reduction of the bodys metabolism.

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Bensons Relaxation Response

• 1. Pick a focus word or phrase rooted in your
  belief system.
• 2. Sit quietly in a comfortable position.
• 3. Close your eyes.
• 4. Relax your muscles.

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Bensons Relaxation Response

• 5. Breathe slowly and naturally, repeating your
  focus word or phrase as you exhale.
• 6. Assume a passive attitude.
• 7. Continue for 10-20 minutes.
• 8. Do not stand immediately. Sit quietly
  allowing yourself to slowly return to normal
  activity.
• 9. Practice once or twice daily.

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Relaxation Response

• Four components found in virtually every
  relaxation technique are
• 1. A quiet environment
• 2. A mental device
• 3. A passive attitude
• 4. A comfortable position

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Bensons Focus Words

• Secular focus words
• One
• Ocean
• Love
• Peace
• Calm
• Relax

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Religious Focus Words or Prayers

• Christian (protestant or catholic).
• Our father who art in heaven.
• The lord is my shepherd.
• Catholic.
• Hail Mary, full of grace.
• Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.

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Religious Focus Words or Prayers

• Jewish.
• Shma Yisroel.
• Shalom.
• Echod.
• The lord is my shepherd.
• Islamic.
• Inshaallah.
• Hindu.
• Om.