Progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, and ABC relaxation theory.

Full Abstract

This study compared the psychological effects of Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) and breathing exercises. Forty-two students were divided randomly into two groups and taught PMR or breathing exercises. Both groups practiced for five weeks and were given the Smith Relaxation States Inventory before and after each session. As hypothesized, PMR practitioners displayed greater increments in relaxation states (R-States) Physical Relaxation and Disengagement, while breathing practitioners displayed higher levels of R-State Strength and Awareness. Slight differences emerged at Weeks 1 and 2; major differences emerged at Weeks 4 and 5. A delayed and potentially reinforcing aftereffect emerged for PMR only after five weeks of training--increased levels of Mental Quiet and Joy. Clinical and theoretical implications are discussed. Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Author information

Author/s: Matsumoto, M (M); Smith, J C (JC);

Affiliation: Roosevelt University Stress Institute, Chicago, IL 60605, USA.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Journal of clinical psychology (J Clin Psychol), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2001-Dec; vol 57 (issue 12) : pp 1551-7

Dates: Created 2001/12/17; Completed 2002/01/04; Revised 2008/11/21;

PMID: 11745596, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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