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Progressive Muscle Relaxation

By Matthew Tull, PhD, About.com

Created: July 22, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

Progressive muscle relaxation or PMR is a particular type of relaxation exercise that requires a person to alternate between tensing and relaxing different muscle groups throughout the body.

It is thought that more complete relaxation can occur by first tensing your muscles. In addition, by tensing your muscles and immediately relaxing them afterwards, a person may begin to view sensations associated with muscle tension (a common symptom of stress and anxiety) as a signal to relax.

Also Known As: PMR
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