Meadow
Relaxation
Audio relaxation
exercise focused on teaching the
three main methods of relaxation which include
slow, relaxed breathing, muscle relaxation, and
guided imagery. The imagery describes
taking a walk through a meadow on a summer day
and sitting next to a bubbling brook.
Choose imagery based upon what seems pleasant
for you.
This may be used while sitting or lying down in
a quiet, comfortable place. Just close
your eyes and listen without trying to force
yourself to relax. If your mind wanders,
gently bring yourself back to focus on the
words.
Although it describes gradually coming back to
full awareness at the end of the exercise, some
people use this to help with sleep. They
just tell themselves to ignore the directions to
become more aware.
Do not use while operating a car!
With Music Version
Voice Only Version
"When you are in a state of
mindfulness you are actually
more aware and able to
engage in tasks..."
When I ask clients what they do for daily relaxation I usually get responses such as:
"I relax by watching TV every night."
"I have a glass of wine."
"I read a book."
"I go out with friends."
"I go to the gym and work out."
"I find gardening relaxing."
"I like to fish."
Although each of these activities may be perceived as relaxing and may even have an element of
mindfulness, they don't provide the brain and body with the deep meditative relaxation we
require. In fact, most of these activities are stimulating to the brain or the body
rather than quieting.
READ MORE...
As you may realize as you read the articles on this
site, the underlying core issue for many problems
resides with irrational thinking styles. That, of course, is the basic premise
of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). We develop styles
of thinking based
upon our learning experiences, our parents' thinking,
and societal/community beliefs and expectations.
READ MORE...
