Audio Collection: Psychology Tools For Relaxation
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Audio collection (ZIP)
1. Relaxed breathing exercise (MP3)
2. Progressive muscle relaxation (MP3)
3. Peaceful place exercise (MP3)
4. Combined relaxation exercise (MP3)
Audio script (PDF)
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
- Relaxed breathing: A diaphragmatic breathing exercise designed to promote physical relaxation and a feeling of safety
- Progressive muscle relaxation: An exercise in which the client is instructed to focus on different muscle groups in turn, practising tensing and relaxing.
- Peaceful place: A guided imagery exercise using client-generated imagery (sometimes referred to as a safe place exercise).
- Combined relaxation exercise: A combined exercise which guides clients through all of the above exercises in a relaxing sequence.
Therapist Guidance
This audio collection is designed for anyone who experiences stress or who like to learn relaxation techniques. No previous experience with relaxation exercises is necessary. All clients needs is a space where they will not be disturbed for the duration of the exercises. Clinicians can also download the verbatim scripts, allowing them to record the exercises for clients in their own voice to reinforce work completed in therapy.
How can I share the audio collection with my clients?
The audio collection is downloaded as a .ZIP file which contains multiple .MP3 files. The .ZIP file will need to be ‘unzipped’ before the audio files can be accessed. Once unzipped, the audio files can be played in most media player apps. Instructions on how to unzip files for all major platforms are available at the support pages here:
- Windows: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/zip-and-unzip-files-f6dde0a7-0fec-8294-e1d3-703ed85e7ebc
- MacOS: https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/mac-help/mchlp2528/mac
- iOS: https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT211132
- Android: https://support.google.com/files/answer/9048509?hl=en
The simplest way to share an audio collection with your clients is by using the Psychology Tools ‘Email a client’ function. After obtaining their consent to send them the file you can send it directly from this page by clicking ‘Send securely to my client’. Your client will receive a secure email containing a unique link, and when they click the link the .ZIP file will be downloaded onto their device.
References And Further Reading
- Benson, H., Beary, J. F., & Carol, M. P. (1974). The relaxation response. Psychiatry, 37(1), 37-46.
- Bernstein, D. A., & Borkovec, T. D. (1973). Progressive relaxation training: A manual for the helping professions.
- Elton, D., Burrows, G. D., & Stanley, G. V. (1978). Relaxation theory and practice. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, 24(3), 143-149.
- Jacobson E. (1938). Progressive Muscle Relaxation. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.