Abstract

Stress produces changes in the sympathetic nerve system increasing muscle tension as well as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, adrenaline secretion and sweating, and leading to various stress-related diseases. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) has been most frequently used technique of relaxation interventions to control stress responses. PMR training is a process of deliberately tensing and then relaxing oneself in order to learn to notice the difference between the two states. Various previous studies found the effectiveness of PMR on stress-related diseases. Some studies that failed to find the effectiveness of PMR illustrated the importance of application skills of it. It is also important to know that people who learn to relax do not lose motivation and productivity. Clinicians may consider apply PMR with other therapeutic techniques. In this article, the guideline for clinical application of PMR was suggested, and clinician's own modified practices were encouraged. (Korean J Str Res 2008;16:167∼173)

• Keywords: Stress, Tension, Progressive muscle relaxation